10/22/2017
It's okay to ask for help when you're in a difficult stage of life! We're not meant to do this alone!
Need anything?
Accepting or reaching out for help can be difficult for new parents.
In offering support to someone with a new baby, rather than asking a general question, why not try making a specific offer for help?
Rather than a blanket, “need anything?”,
here’s some things to try that might actually result in accepting the offer:
- “You know that *meal they’ve cooked for you in the past*, I’d love the recipe. Would you write it down for me? I’ll make a double batch and drop some over.”
- “Would it be okay if I pop the kettle on?” Offer to make the new parents a cup of tea. “While the kettle is on, is it alright if I just wash these dishes/clean the kitchen sink?” Then offer to hold the baby while the parent drinks a warm beverage.
- “What’s one thing I could do while I’m here that would make your day easier?”
- “I’m not just here to see the baby. I’m here to visit you and give you a hand. What can I do to be useful?”
- (Call before you visit) “I just need to pop to the shops before I come over, is there anything I can grab for you? Bread? Milk? Nappies?”
- If baby is having a cuddle with you and is settled “no offence, but we’re good here. If you want to go have a shower, nap or something, you’re welcome to. I can sing out if he/she gets upset.”
- Be willing to accept that sometimes what a new parent REALLY needs is adult company and conversation! Turn up with morning tea and your listening ears.
Image credit: The Postpartum Stress Center and are joining forces on this great campaign to about . Looking forward to seeing more from them.
