When a friend has a new baby, we often want to shower her with love. But knowing exactly how to do that in a way that is helpful can be challenging. I’ve been around the postpartum block a time or two…seven times, to be exact!…and have learned a few tips along the way. So, let’s talk about what to give a new mom, letting her know that she’s not alone on this journey. Here are my thoughts.
There’s nothing more precious to a new mom than time–time to adore her new baby, time to rest, and time to care for the demands of life. So, offering your time can make a world of difference. Help with house chores, offer to run errands, do a load of laundry, or watch the baby while mom naps or takes a shower. These simple acts of kindness can provide your friend with a much-needed breather.
Between breastfeeding and diaper changes, newborn baby care requires a lot of attention. New moms often forget to take care of their own nutritional needs. With that in mind, a great gift to give a new mom is to provide a home-cooked meal. Cook a healthy, nutritious meal that can be easily reheated. Or, drop by a simple casserole or soup that can be frozen and used later. Avoid foods that may make a breastfed baby fussy, such as spicy foods, meals that are heavy on dairy, gas-producing options like beans and brussel sprouts, or foods that are heavy on chocolate. And be sure to ask about any dietary restrictions the family may have beforehand.
Try: Chicken Noodle Soup, Go-To Nourish Salad, Beefy Baked Ravioli
In the same vein, organizing a meal train can be a great gift for a new mom. Coordinate with other friends and family members to deliver home-cooked or takeout meals to last for the first few weeks postpartum. There are online platforms where you can schedule who is bringing what meal on what day, ensuring a constant stream of nutritious food for the family. This takes the guesswork out of meal times, allowing mom to focus more energy on her new bundle of joy.
If your friend has older kids, give a new mom the gift of babysitting! Offering to entertain the older kids for a few hours can be a game-changer. This allows the parents to focus on the new baby or, importantly, to take some time for themselves. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a rare date night, your offer could be a significant relief.
Gift cards are a practical gift that most new moms appreciate. Consider cards for Amazon, local takeout restaurants, or even services like house cleaning or laundry. Gift cards offer flexibility, allowing the new mom to choose exactly what she needs when she needs it.
Put together a basket of newborn essentials like diapers, baby wipes, soothing creams, and perhaps a few onesies for the baby. But don’t forget the mom! A box of her favorite herbal tea, a new book, or her favorite luxury bath products are perfect ideas. This thoughtful gift will show your friend that you’re there to support them through this new chapter in their life.
One friend told me that the best gift she ever received after giving birth was a grocery bag full of healthy snacks, just for her. She kept the bag beside the couch, and it make it simple for her to snack while she breastfed the baby. Some ideas of food to give a new mom in a snack bag include:
Sometimes the best thing you can do is lend an ear. Let your friend share their fears, joys, struggles, and successes without judgment. Encourage her, remind her of her strength, and let her know it’s okay not to be perfect.
After the initial flurry of excitement over the new baby has passed, friends and family can sometimes drift away. Caring for a baby while staying home to rest and heal can leave a new mom feeling isolated. Continue to check in, offer help, and provide companionship.
Remember, it’s not about grand gestures but the small, meaningful acts of kindness that will make the difference. And if you’re unsure of what your friend might need, just ask.
Your love and support will mean more than you know. Being a friend means being there in times of change, joy, and challenge. Let’s support each other, share the love, and make the journey of parenthood a little easier.
When a friend has a new baby, we often want to shower her with love. But knowing exactly how to do that in a way that is helpful can be
