You will commonly hear that welcoming a new baby is a beautiful experience. Labor and delivery aside, this is a true statement but it’s also the most challenging experience a women will ever have. Doesn’t matter if it’s her first child or third, every mom needs support so she feels cared for and less overwhelmed while she navigates the emotional and physical demands of motherhood. Just to be clear, support doesn’t need to come from a partner. (Single mom’s are absolute beasts, if you ask me.) Family, friends, heck even next door neighbors can be valuable sources of support.
So whether you’re looking for ways to support a new mom or a new mom trying to let someone know how to support you, here are some thoughtful and practical ways to offer support.
Run Errands
Life doesn’t stop when a baby arrives, and errands can quickly pile up. Offering to grab groceries, pick up diapers, or even fill up the car with gas can take a huge weight off her shoulders. Even something as simple as picking up a prescription can make a big difference.
Nutritious Meals
One of the best gifts you can give a new mom is a break from cooking. Drop off healthy, ready-to-eat meals or organize a meal train where friends and family take turns delivering meals.
Don’t forget to ask about dietary preferences or restrictions and bring meals that are easy to heat up.
Help with Childcare
If the mom has older children, babysitting them for a few hours can give her a much-needed breather. Whether it’s entertaining the kids at the park or helping with school pick-ups, stepping in to manage sibling care helps reduce stress and lets her bond with the baby.
Assist with Housework
Household chores can feel like a mountain when caring for a newborn. Help with specific tasks like folding laundry, washing dishes, or tidying up the living room. The key is to ask what she needs help with instead of just assuming—sometimes small tasks like emptying the dishwasher can feel monumental for her.
Encourage Self-Care
Many moms forget to take care of themselves in the chaos of caring for a baby. Encourage her to shower, nap, or take a short walk while you watch the baby. Let her know that her well-being matters too and that taking a break isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
Support Breastfeeding or Pumping
If the mom is breastfeeding or pumping, one simple thing can be incredibly helpful. Setting up a cozy space with a water bottle, snacks, pillows, and a phone charger nearby will make her feel on top of the world. Breastfeeding is demanding, and being thoughtful about her environment can make it a smoother experience.
Acknowledge Mom, Not Just Baby
This may be the most important tip of all. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new baby, but moms need to be feel seen too. Compliment her strength, ask how she’s doing emotionally, and remind her that she’s doing an amazing job. Being recognized as a person beyond just “the baby’s mom” can be incredibly validating.
Supporting a new mom doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, thoughtful acts of kindness can make a world of difference. The goal is to ease her load, acknowledge her effort, and remind her she’s not alone. Even if you’re unsure of how to help, simply asking, “What do you need most right now?” shows her you care.
What’s your take? Drop it below!