Bringing Home Baby – Do’s and Don’ts for Interacting with New Moms
As we watch the Royal Baby be welcomed home this week, we can all use a refresher course in new-mommy etiquette. While the new baby in your extended circle may not be followed by paparazzi, there are rules to follow to honor the family’s privacy and choices.
Bringing home a newborn baby requires specific etiquette rules, some even unique to interacting with a new mom. At the core, put your caring of the new parents over any selfish motives, even if that means you don’t get to hold that cute, fresh babe! Here are 5 do’s and 5 don’ts to consider when visiting a new mom and her baby.
DO drop off food for the family and make your visit brief. Keep your generous act to just that and don’t expect the new parents to “owe” you anything, like a newborn cuddle, unless they offer first.
DON’T try to trump the new mom’s labor story. It’s her time. Celebrate that! Also, leave the scary stories about your new baby experiences at the door.
DO ask if the family has any dietary restrictions before dropping off food. Dropping off food is a great way to show the parents you are thinking of them by fulfilling a basic need.
DON’T overstay your welcome when visiting in the hospital.
DO be available for what the new mom needs after family leaves town or spouse goes to work. Keep in contact with your friend to see what she may need, such as help with meals, babysitting so she can shower and sleep, or help with other siblings.
DON’T snoop. Keep questions about nursing, name choice, and the family’s work schedule to yourself. During this transition interrogative questions might come across as judgmental instead of your good intentioned.
DO leave your toddlers home for the visit. Often, new parents are extra cautious of their newborns getting sick.
DON’T touch or hold the baby until you’ve washed your hands.
DO tell the new mom she looks gorgeous. Who doesn’t love hearing that? No need to mention how easy or difficult it was for you to lose the baby weight.
DON’T offer help, but not follow up with a call. It can be awkward asking for help, so don’t wait for the new mom to make the next move.
Bringing home a new baby is an exciting time. Do what you can to support, encourage, and celebrate them during this very special time!
