Often when you ask , mom isn ’ t able to think of the exact way she needs help . Here are some ideas :
STOP BY THE STORE
Going to the store with newborn and possibly older children for the first time can be a daunting task . Offer to pick up a few things the family needs . This is especially easy if you will be out running errands already . Many grocery stores now offer drive through pick up . Have the family order and pay for groceries online , then pick them up and deliver them . Helping to put them away would be an extra bonus .
HELP AROUND THE HOUSE
Sweep the floor , fold laundry , vacuum , or do dishes .. Even a little bit of tidying up can make a big difference . A clean house during a time of transition can bring order to a time that feels chaotic . However , mom may prefer to clean herself . Offer to care for the baby and other children while she works on a household project .
COME WHEN OTHERS DON ’ T
Not all new moms are “ new moms ”. Families that are adding their second , third , or fourth child need help just as much as first time moms , if not more . When there are older children there is no time for resting when the baby rests . Older children do not stop activities just because a new baby has arrived and mom and dad are tired . It can be very difficult to entertain a toddler while mom is nursing or changing diapers . Offer to take care of the older children for mom or offer to take care of baby so she can spend some alone time with her older children .
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