Welcoming a new baby into the world is so exciting! However,
it can also be a very anxious and overwhelming experience for new (and
not-so-new) parents. As friends, co-workers, aunts, and uncles - we all want to
jump at the chance to rush to see this new bundle of joy. Before you go though,
there are some helpful tips you should remember when visiting a newborn. By
following these newborn etiquette basics, you'll be the favorite visitor of
all!
Be Patient
If you are not a very close friend or family, consider
waiting to visit until everyone is settled at home. There is so much happening
during the usual 48-hour hospital stay that it can be very overwhelming,
especially for new parents. Let the mother's partner, mother, or friend know
that you'd love to visit once they are comfortable at home. Parents need time
to catch up on sleep, learn nursing techniques or how to properly fix a bottle
quickly, and just general bonding time.
Don't Go Empty Handed
When you do visit, bring reinforcements! When visiting their
home, bring a meal, cupcake, diapers, wine, healthy smoothie, protein bars, or
snacks. You'll be the hero of the day!
Make Yourself Useful
Ask the new parents if there is anything you can do for
them. If you are a best friend or close family member, ask if you can help with
any chores around the house such as picking up the dishes, putting a batch of towels to wash, or running
to the store for essentials.
Remember why you are there - to offer congratulations and
support to a loved one. Don't take this time to dole out unsolicited parenting
advice. While these new parents may come to you in the future for help and
information, now is the time to smile and offer quiet, moral support.
Keep Germs Away
Newborn babies' immune systems are weak so it's important to
make sure you keep your germs at home. Wash your hands when you arrive to visit
and use hand sanitizer. If you are a smoker, wear a newly washed shirt so that
you do not have remnants of smoke on you when holding a newborn. If you cannot
put on a fresh shirt, throw on a clean jacket.
Gift Thoughtfully
If you would like to bring a gift for new baby, our Welcome Home Baby Gift Set is a wonderful idea. The 9-piece gift set includes 1 footie bodysuit, 1 cap, 1
teddy bear, 1 bib, 4 reusable wipes in a medium sized handled basket. These
items will be great for when mom and dad are ready for their first big outing
with baby.
More than anything, what new parents want is to feel
supported and loved. Be encouraging, respectful of their wishes, and
thoughtful.
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