Support: 8 amazing things to say to the new mum in your life

For those of us with kids – few can honestly say that those early days weren’t without their challenges.

Of course it’s amazing, but there are moments of madness too, not to mention periods of intense loneliness and despair.

And regardless of whether you have your own offspring or not – knowing how to support the new mums in your life is one of the most important jobs you can do as their friend.

Sometimes all it takes is a few, simple words too. Here are eight things that every parent of a newborn would love to hear…

1) You’re already doing brilliantly

They might brush off your compliment, but reiterate it: if they’re surviving then they’re also thriving. Taking each day as it comes is an achievement in itself – and one that’s not celebrated enough.

2) Every parent is learning

Some people make it look easy, but in reality parenting is a life-long journey. No one knows it all – no one gets it right all the time. Mistakes will be made, and that’s OK.  

3) Your baby is so lucky to have you as their mum

New mums – of course – have an overwhelming drive to do their absolute best for their babies; remind them that their small one is blessed as well as a blessing.

4) I want to help – what should I do?

From watching the baby while she has a shower and dropping off a couple of home-cooked meals, to doing their supermarket shop, there are a load of really practical things to get involved in.

5) Just ignore the haters

From a comment or message online, or a remark made by someone in a park – criticism can come thick and fast once you’ve given birth. Remind them to ignore it completely and get on with doing their own thing.

6) Do you wanna go out?

For a coffee, a meal, or a big glass of Pinot Grigio – just because she just gave birth and is basking in her new-found love doesn’t mean she’s also not dying for a few hours away from the baby.

7) Everything will be fine; you can do this

Everything from careers and relationships, to body-image and self-confidence can all get a bit of a rattle post-baba. So keep the new mama focused on the bigger picture, and remind her that it all will work out in the end.

8) This really is the perfect time for you

Too young; too old; not ‘stable’ enough – there can be a pretty long list of times NOT to have a baby. But everyone is different, and circumstances are rarely clear-cut. So tell her not to over-think her own situation, and to celebrate it instead.