Picture this: Your close friend just gave birth to her long-anticipated baby, and you’re itching to rush over and cradle that little angel. You might feel an overwhelming urge to visit her in the hospital, eagerly wanting to soak in that sweet new baby scent. Perhaps you worry about hurting her feelings if you don’t show enthusiasm for her newest family member. But hold on—let’s rethink this.
As someone who has been through the rollercoaster of new motherhood, I can tell you that the last thing a new mom often needs is a parade of visitors. I distinctly recall being two months postpartum and realizing just how overwhelming it was to have friends stop by, each with their loud voices and unfamiliar faces, jostling my sensitive newborn. Ladies, please, give that baby a moment’s peace! I certainly didn’t yearn for company during my most exhausting days; I was too busy drowning in fatigue and baby mess to care about feeling lonely.
Before I became a mom, I was that friend who would just pop in to hold your baby. To all those new mothers I visited with empty hands, I offer my sincerest apologies. No new mom is waiting, heart racing, for someone to show up just to cradle her baby. Trust me on this.
I remember visiting a friend solely to hold her newborn and, to my embarrassment, I ended up eating the dinner her husband had prepared. I had no reason to be munching on her food! Now that I’m a mom myself, I’ve learned a few essential rules about how to be a supportive visitor during those early months:
- Bring Food: Opt for takeout from a nice restaurant that you know they’ll enjoy. Get enough for leftovers, including something for Dad. Don’t bother cooking unless you’re sure it tastes good. If your budget is tight, reconsider whether you should visit at all.
- Don’t Touch Her Food: If the new mom offers you something from her kitchen, politely decline. You’re not a guest; you’re an uninvited guest. Remember, everything you leave uneaten is a meal for her later.
- Gift Time: Even if you brought a gift to the baby shower, check in with Mom to see if she needs anything else. Simple items like pacifiers or diaper purchases are always appreciated—just ensure they’re the right brand!
- Capture Moments: If you’re handy with a camera, take some lovely pictures but don’t sell them later. Send them for free as a thoughtful gesture.
- Dress Appropriately: Avoid bringing clothing that isn’t suitable for the season or not fitting for the baby’s size. Babies grow quickly, so think logically!
- Skip the Knick-knacks: No one wants extra stuff cluttering their space when they have a newborn. Keep your decor ideas to yourself.
- Be Helpful: If the new mom is someone who’s a bit controlling about her house, she may need to let go. Those early months are just the beginning of a whirlwind!
- Do the Dishes: If you see a pile of dirty dishes, just wash them. Don’t wait for an invitation.
- Tackle the Laundry: Spot a laundry pile? Fold it—yes, even the underwear.
- Be Proactive: One friend of mine not only brought food but also called from the store to ask if I needed anything. That’s the kind of friend you want to be!
- Avoid Being Clueless: There were visitors who made me feel like I was stuck, and they didn’t even bring anything! Don’t be that person.
When visiting a new mom, remember that a thoughtful gesture goes a long way. For those who tend to show up empty-handed, think about a special gift for the baby’s next birthday celebration. And rest assured, your time will come when you find yourself wondering what friends should do when they just want to hold a baby.
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Summary
Being supportive to a new mother requires thoughtfulness and consideration. Bring food, avoid eating her meals, and offer assistance instead of just holding the baby. Gifts are appreciated, and practical help like doing dishes or folding laundry is invaluable. A true friend will be proactive and sensitive to the new mom’s needs.
Keyphrase: New Baby Visitor Etiquette
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