4. “I’M GOING TO BRING YOU DINNER, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU FANCY?”
PND. Early help can provide muchneeded support networks, and those close to new mums are often the first people to spot signs of any problems.
3. “CAN I GET YOU ANYTHING?”
IT’S always good to call or message ahead of a visit to ask if there’s anything you can bring with you. Chances are that when baby brain and tiredness sets in, running out of an essential item, such as washing up liquid, teabags or baby wipes, is more likely. Just stopping off for a couple of items can mean a new mum doesn’t have to trail out
THIS is such a lifesaver, especially during the early days and weeks for new mums and dads. To not have to think about what to make for dinner, can take the pressure off and help immensely.
Making a delicious healthy meal is usually quite low on the list of priorities as a new mum, but a gifted meal will be very much appreciated. Easily prepared dishes such as chilli, stews, curries or soups are ideal, and can be reheated when needed.
If you’re feeling generous, you could make double, so there’s one for the freezer too.
5. “I’M GOING TO THE PARK/ SWIMMING/SOFT PLAY, WOULD YOUR OLDER CHILD LIKE TO COME?”
OTHER children can become bored and fractious if they are inside too long and mum is busy with their new sibling. Taking their other children for a trip to the park – so they can let off steam and use their energy, can be so helpful to new parents, and it can also give them a couple of hours to enjoy their newborn baby.
6. “WOULD YOU LIKE ME TO PLAN AN EVENING OUT, GIRLS’ NIGHT IN OR TRIP NEXT MONTH?”
ALTHOUGH this may be the last thing on a new mum’s mind, just asking and pitching the night out for the next month, can mean she can look forward to a few hours to be herself again. It can be all-consuming being a new mum, and a day or evening of respite to look forward to with friends, can offer a much-needed boost.
7. “CAN I WATCH THE BABY WHILE YOU GO TO THE SHOP OR FOR A WALK?”
WHEN a new mum has been feeding, changing and comforting her newborn for days, being able to pop out, even for 30 minutes, might be just what she wants to do, to clear her head without having to think of her newborn’s needs. She might find it difficult to ask, but easier to accept an offer to watch her baby.
You could also offer to make coffee, unload the washing machine or do the dishes it’s one less household task for new mums and families to do.
Lesley Gilchrist of My Expert Midwife