Having a new baby can be tough on your body and your emotions. Veteran moms understand this, which is why so many will offer to help you after your baby arrives.
Rather than trying to do everything yourself, take your friends and family up on their generosity. This can be especially tough if you’re an independent, Type-A personality. If you feel like you could use some help, but don’t even know where to begin, here are some ideas you can suggest when someone offers a helping hand.
- Bring food. Ask friends who want to visit to come with frozen meals that can be popped in the oven later, or to bring take-out from your favorite restaurant.
- Keep a running grocery list so when someone asks how they can help, you can ask them to hit the grocery store. Read them 2-3 items from off the top of your list to help you keep your fridge stocked with healthy foods.
- Ask them to come over for an hour and hold the baby. Time their visit for right after you breastfeed and then use this down time to take a shower, run an errand, or lay down and take a nap.
- If you’re comfortable having people handle your clothes, ask them to start a load of laundry or fold whatever is in the dryer
- Kitchens get cluttered fast. Visitors can clean the dishes in the sink, and start or unload the dishwasher.
- If you have older kids, one of the most helpful tasks will be keeping your other children entertained. Ask them to take the kids to a movie or out for a playdate. Or ask a friend to watch your baby so you can sneak out for an hour to get some quality time with your partner or your older kids.
- But it’s also okay to say no! If you don’t feel like having visitors, don’t be afraid to tell them. If you’re not looking forward to getting out of the house, don’t agree to a lunch date that you’re not ready for. Just remember that all these offers are coming from a place of love, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel like you need it.
