As a new parent we are always looking for words of advice or things to make our lives a little easier. We are tired, exhausted, overwhelmed and have no idea what we are doing with a new born baby, the last thing that we want to hear are other’s opinions forced onto our sleep deprived brains. So instead of asking questions about sleep habits and whether they are breastfeeding or bottle feeding (as it really doesn’t matter), here’s what every new parent wants to see or hear. Sit down and let me make you a cup of tea These are words to any new parent’s ears. If you are visiting them after the baby arrives, then make sure it is you who is making the tea, and not them. How are you? When people become a parent they tend to get forgotten about as all the focus is now on the baby. One of the most simple questions you can ask any new parent is “How are you?”. This will be hugely appreciated, and they may also really welcome the conversation. I bought you round a home made lasagne If you are the person bringing round the home made lasagne or any other dish, these new parents will love you. Buying food and cooking will be the last thing on a new mum’s mind. But you can make sure that she is eating well by taking food round to her that she only needs to heat up. Let me look after the baby whilst you have a shower Hooray! If you offer to do this you will make a new mum very happy. It may have been a few days since she last washed her hair. And, she is desperate to feel clean after the night sweats and leaky boobs. So offer to watch the baby for 30 minutes whilst she has that much needed shower. Have a nap whilst I watch the baby The term “sleep when the baby sleeps” just doesn’t work on a new parent, who instead will be wanting to do the washing or a million other things that they need to do. Whilst the baby is awake, let them have a nap. Then when the baby does sleep, they are feeling refreshed to do one of the million things that they do need to do. Trust your instincts There is so much advice on Google, and other people will happily pass on their own. However they shouldn’t let that advice cloud their own judgement. Let them know it is really important that they listen to their instincts and trust their gut feeling, especially if they think that something is wrong. Where’s your cleaning stuff and I’ll give your bathroom a clean Hallelujah! Any new parent will love you for this. Or they will love you if you offered to do any household chores. Having a clean house will be a huge relief for them, and another thing that they do not need to worry about. I have brought you steak, brie and red wine These are things that any pregnant lady should refrain from during pregnancy. However once the baby is here they will most likely be dreaming of eating and drinking what they couldn’t eat or drink during pregnancy. To make a new mum really happy, pop round and offer to cook her up a feast and share a glass of wine or two with her. It takes time to bond with your baby This is a great piece of advice to give to any new parent who may feel that they should know their baby as soon as it emerges from the womb. However it takes time to get to know their personality traits and to get used to their own baby crying, wants and needs. Lastly, you are doing great! A new parent may not feel like they are whilst they are dealing with sleepless nights, endless feeding and nappy changes. But those 4 little words “You are doing great” will make a huge difference and hopefully bring a smile to their face. So those are 10 things that you can say to any new parent, and I’m sure that if you do they will really appreciate it. Becoming a new parent is hard work, and often seen as never-ending or never getting any better. However some kind works and the offer of help or food will be gratefully received. Claire x