If you’re a mom, you’ll know how motherhood can be challenging, especially in the first couple of weeks after giving birth. New moms don’t usually know how to ask for help or don’t know what they need.
You probably want to help the new mama, but you don’t know how to assist. Here’s a list of 11 ways to support a new mom.
Organise food drop-offs
It’s natural for a new mama to forget about their needs because they’re so preoccupied with the baby. As a result, they may skip meals, so help them out by organising food drop-offs.
You could achieve this by cooking a little extra when you’re cooking for your own family, or you could buy one of those quick meals that you simply pop in the oven or microwave. Take things further by rallying friends and relatives to do the same. And also, don’t send a million texts asking about the ideal menu. Just figure it out and drop it off.
Gift for mom
I know that it’s tempting to buy those cute little newborn outfits, but how about you get something for mom instead? The real star of the show is not the baby, but the mom who gave birth or adopted the baby.
Provide emotional support
Many new moms feel isolated and lonely. Most of the time, your partner is at work, and it’s just you and your tiny human in the house. So be there for her when she needs to talk. Mama also needs love and attention. While the new mama is still essentially the same person, be mindful that she might be more interested in talking about diapers and breastfeeding for the first few months. So be patient.
And when you visit mom and baby, please remember to bring food and help clean up before you leave. And also don’t stay for too long. The new mom still loves you, but she just doesn’t have the capacity to socialise like she used to.
While some moms crave companionship, others need the opposite. If you sense that the new mom needs space, leave them alone. But let them know that you are here for them if they need you.
Babysit older kids
Taking care of a newborn is challenging. Taking care of a newborn and older kids can be even more difficult. Pick up the older kids and take them to the park or organise a playdate for them. Or you could offer to pick them up or drop them off at school.
Bring diapers and wipes
Trust me, no mama can ever have too many diapers or wet wipes. It’s safe to say to say this will always be a much needed gift. Don’t forget to ask mama for baby’s diaper size.
Help her sleep
It’s no secret that new moms are beyond sleep deprived. So, offer to take care of the baby for an hour or two while she sleeps. I can’t think of anything that’s more thoughtful than that. Having that extra sleep and support is way better than any material gift you can give.
Don’t forget to wash your hands before you hold the baby.
Help around the house
Pop in to help around the house. You could do the dishes, run to the store or hold the baby while she sleeps. Alternatively, you could hire someone to do the work for you.
Remind her that she’s doing a great job
In the early days of motherhood, there’s little feedback. We need that little validation. So when you see the new mama, tell her that she’s doing an excellent job. Remind her that her baby is healthy and happy because of her.
Ask the mom
We all experience new motherhood differently, so it’s common for each mom to want something a little different from the next mom. Please make time to ask the new mama how they would like you to support them. You don’t want to bring her another meal when she a freezer filled with frozen food.
Take pictures
I have so many photos of my kids when they were newborns, but I hardly any of myself and the baby. So, take lots of pictures of mom and baby, and send them to her.
Send a care package
I love this idea. If you live far away, send a healthy snack or beauty hamper to mom.
Those are some of the ways you can support a new mom, from gifts to small meaningful acts. What isn’t so helpful is unwanted advice. So bring the casseroles but keep that unsolicited advice to yourself!
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