Friends can be great sources of support before, during, and after pregnancy. If you have a friend who is currently pregnant; offering support can make a world of difference. If you don’t know where to get started, here are some best practices friends can do to help.
Be There for Emotional Support
Throughout pregnancy, women experience a lot of emotions due to the high level of hormones being produced, having to navigate through all the information out there, and learning how to adapt once the baby is born. Being there emotionally for them can be something as simple as just listening and letting her vent her worries, frustrations, hopes. Sometimes this is all it takes to help the soon-to-be or new mom release some stress. Of course, if appropriate, commenting or sharing your opinion can help the conversation or situation, but keep in mind that her feelings can change from one day to the next.
Run Errands and Help Around the House
Another great way to support the mom-to-be or new mom is to help run errands. These can vary from going grocery shopping to picking up dry cleaning to picking up baby essentials. There are so many things going on that sometimes stuff gets left to the side, so while it may seem like a small gesture, it can make a huge difference.
Helping around the house can be a godsend! While no one really likes doing chores, doing them while pregnant can be extra hard particularly if you have to squat, bend over, or even reach for something. Providing a helping hand to clean up around the house or even to help with normal chores like taking out the trash, is great.
Once the baby is born, it brings on a whole new level of stress. So by helping run errands, helping around the house, and even bringing overcooked meals, will be much appreciated.
Help With Childcare (If Possible)
This can come in many different forms and depends on how comfortable both you and the mom are. One way is to help take care of the older children while the mother is attending the newborn. This can consist of helping with homework, playing with them, or cooking a meal. Another way is to watch the newborn so mom can take a shower, get some sleep, or just get some alone time. These are some of the ways that you can give the new mom a little break. If the new mom is thinking of childcare, helping with the research and talking to her about your findings, the different options, etc. will help take some of the stress away.
There is no doubt that friends can be great sources of support before, during, and after pregnancy. If you're a friend who is well-versed in all things baby or have children, offer advice and ideas. It is always great to get first-hand knowledge and to learn ways to make your life easier, especially if she is a first-time mom. While pregnancy symptoms vary from woman to woman, sharing your experiences can help prepare her for what is to come. Giving them the support they need can and will go a long way.
If you are looking to make the mom-to-be or new mom’s life a bit easier, check out our gift boxes.