RELATIONSHIPS BY LIZZIE WILLIAMS
HOW TO BEST SUPPORT PARENTS When They Welcome A New Baby
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If you’ve never had a little one (or it’s been a while), it can be
Drop off some healthy snacks. If mom is breastfeeding, healthy
difficult to know the best ways to celebrate our friends, family
snacks can help provide the nutrients she needs to produce milk.
members, colleagues or neighbors when they welcome a new baby.
A few ideas to consider are: Sweet Batches granola bars, Ferris nut
Here are a few ideas to show them some love, whether they’re
mixes, lactation cookies or items that freeze easily like Nantucket
welcoming their first or fourth.
Bakery’s trail bars. Some yummy beverages can also help keep new
Reach out. It sounds simple, but a quick text or call to see
how they’re feeling can mean a lot. With so much attention going
parents hydrated. Inv ite them on a walk. While it can be a challenge to get out
toward their new baby, it’s important to see how they’re doing, as
of the house, a nice way to see your pals is by clocking some
well. Just don’t expect an immediate reply!
miles on their new stroller. For people who have experience
Bring a meal or set up a meal train. If they don’t already have a meal train, offer to set one up. With infants, parents are living minute to minute in between diapers, feeding, wake windows and naps. Not having to think about a meal is a huge help.
with newborns, this can also provide a safe space to see if a new parent needs any guidance. Run an errand—or ride along. Loading that car seat in and out of your vehicle for quick trips like the post off ice or
Send a gift card. If you don’t live close enough to drop off
pharmacy can be a pain … Literally! Those things are heav y.
a meal, a virtual gift card is a nice alternative. Meal delivery
Offer to run an errand or two, or simply offer to ride along, if
services like Doordash and UberEats can be sent directly through
that’s easier for them.
text message or email, so it’s a nice option if you don’t have your friend’s address.
Contribute toward a “gift of service.” If they’re going to be utilizing any postpartum services like doula care, you could
With so much attention going toward their new baby, it's important to see how they're doing, as well. 10
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