How To Support A New Mom During The Holidays

Visiting a new mom can be one of the most thoughtful ways to show your support.  A well-planned, low-pressure visit can provide comfort and much-needed relief, allowing her to feel loved and supported without the stress of entertaining. Here’s how you can make your visit a truly meaningful one for the new mom in your life!

Plan Your Visit Thoughtfully

• Make Sure It’s Convenient: New moms have unpredictable schedules, so be sure to check in with her first and pick a time that works best for her. Be flexible in case she needs to change timing. 

• Keep It Cozy & Short: A brief visit of 30-60 minutes is usually perfect, especially when she’s still adjusting to her new routine. It’s just enough time to catch-up or let her feel a moment of normalcy, without creating the pressure to entertain or exert too much effort. 

• Bring Something Thoughtful: Surprise her with a homemade meal, a basket of snacks, or a gift card for takeout. It’s a thoughtful way to help her avoid thinking about what’s for lunch or dinner, especially if she has other littles at home. 

Offer Your Help (And Mean It!)

• Be Specific with Offers: Instead of “Let me know if you need anything,” ask something like “Can I run a quick errand for you?” or “Can I watch the baby while you take a shower?” It’ll make it easier for her to say yes. 

• Help Out Around the House: If you’re comfortable, tidy up a little or wash a few dishes. Maybe see if there’s a load of laundry you can help fold? Small gestures go a long way! 

Be Supportive and Encouraging

• Offer Positive Words: A simple “You’re doing an amazing job” or “Your baby is so lucky to have you as a mom” can mean so much. 

• Be a Listening Ear: If she wants to talk about how she’s feeling, let her share without interjecting your own experience or offering unsolicited advice. Just listening and being present can be a huge comfort. This is a time of change, whether it’s first baby or the family is growing. 

Respect Her Space and Boundaries

• Ask Before You Hold the Baby: It’s always good to ask if it’s okay before picking up the baby. Some parents might be cautious or may want to limit contact, especially during the early days. If you do hold the baby, make sure to wash your hands first.  

• Offer Space: If she looks flustered or is trying to settle the baby, don’t take it personally if she needs to step away for a minute. You being there is already a huge support. This is a great time to do her dishes or something else to give her some space and let her handle whatever situation arises.  

• Don’t Overstay: If she starts to look tired or if you sense the visit has come to its natural end, it’s okay to say, “I’ll let you get back to it. I’m so glad I came!” 

 Follow Up with Kindness

• Check in After Your Visit: A quick message saying “I loved seeing you today – and you are doing so great! Let me know if there’s anything I can do” is a warm reminder that you’re thinking of her. 

• Give Her Time: New moms are adjusting to a lot, so don’t feel bad if she takes a while to respond or can’t chat as often as before. 

Your visit can be such a sweet way to show her she’s loved and supported. Just being there, showing you care, and helping out in small ways will mean the world to her!