Being a new parent, whether for the first time or not is both exciting and overwhelming which means that a support network can be a really good thing. However, as the person offering the support, there are some things you can do to make sure you get things right. Here are some top tips for supporting a new parent.
Go at Their Pace
It is important to remember that people have all sorts of journeys to become parents – not everyone finds getting pregnant easy, some people go down the route of adopting etc. This means that everyone will have their own story but also their own needs and boundaries. Ensure that the person you care about knows that you have plenty of support to offer them but that you are happy to go at their pace, respect their needs and take your prompts from them on what is best – they’ll really appreciate you for it.
Offer Support From a Distance
Although your first instinct is probably to rush over and meet the new arrival, the truth is that not everyone is ready for visitors straight away – and that is okay. Just because you’re unable to visit doesn’t mean that you can’t offer support – ensure that they know you’re only a text or a call away if they need some virtual company. Sometimes new parents can really do with adult conversation and you offering just that will be something that they’ll want to take you up on.
Give Practical Support
When it comes to actually giving help and support practical support is definitely a good thing – can you help with some tidying when you pop over or arrange for some meals to be prepared and then stored in their freezer so they have quick and easy dinner options? Ask them what they need – it could be something as simple as watching the baby so they can take 10 minutes out to have a shower and wash their hair, but you can be sure that your help in making this happen is something they’ll really appreciate.
If you have any top tips for supporting a new parent we’d love to hear them!