Raising children is one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences a person can have. The joys of watching your children grow and learn are immeasurable. However, the day-to-day reality of parenting – juggling work, family, and social obligations – can be overwhelming, especially for new moms.
If you have a friend who’s a new mom or even a seasoned parent who’s going through a particularly challenging time, here are some thoughtful ways to show your support and let them know they aren’t alone.
- Make Time for Her
Whether going for a walk, grabbing coffee, or planning a night in with a small group of friends, quality time with a friend can be invaluable. Because, sometimes, what helps the most is for someone to be there. Just showing up for your friend can make a world of difference. These small, thoughtful gestures will let her know you’re thinking of her and that she can count on you for support.
- Offer To Watch the Kids
If your friend has younger children, offer to babysit so she can have a break. Even if you can only watch them for a few hours, giving her some time to herself – to sleep, run errands, or just relax – can be a huge help. Besides, what could be more fun than spending time with a mini version of your friend?!
- Do Something Nice for Her
From leaving a surprise treat on her doorstep to picking up her favorite coffee drink, there are endless ways to show your friend you care. A little act of kindness can go a long way in brightening someone’s day. And let’s be honest, we can all use a pick-me-up from time to time.
- Lend an Ear
Being a mom is hard work, and your friend may just need someone to listen to her vent about her day. Being present and offering a sympathetic ear can help her during challenging times. If your friend wants to talk about what’s happening, show her you’re listening without judgment. Avoid offering unsolicited advice unless she asks for it; simply being someone to confide in can be a huge relief.
- Help Out With Household Tasks
If your friend struggles to keep up with everything, offer to help with some of her household tasks. Whether it’s laundry, dishes, or vacuuming, anything you can do to lighten her load will be appreciated. Chances are, she’s already feeling overwhelmed and stressed, and taking on additional tasks is the last thing she needs.
- Recognize Her Achievements
Parenting is a full-time job, and finding time for self-care is not always easy. However, a simple “good job” or “I’m proud of you” can show your support for all her hard work. Your friend is likely her own harshest critic, and a little positive reinforcement helps her appreciate herself and all she’s accomplished.
- Bring Her Food
Sometimes the last thing a busy mom has time for is cooking a nice meal for herself. So, if you’re a good cook, offer to make her a meal or two that she can freeze and heat up when she’s short on time. Or, if you’re not into cooking, you can always order her favorite food and deliver it to her doorstep.
- Throw Her a Party
Moms need to have fun too, so how about throwing your friend a party? Whether a small get-together or a full-blown bash, celebrating your friend is a great way to let her know she’s loved and appreciated. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to shower her with gifts to make her life a little easier.
- Help Her With Errands
Whether your friend is running around all day trying to get everything done or unable to leave the house with a new baby, offer to help her with her errands. Anything you can do to take some of the pressure off, from grocery shopping to picking up the dry cleaning, will help her stay ahead of the game. Doing so will help her do something for herself like going for a walk or visiting the best dentist in Charlotte NC.
- Send Her a Care Package
If you cannot be there in person to support your friend, send her a care package filled with things she loves. Include her favorite snacks, candles, bath products, or anything else she might enjoy. FruitFlowers® from Edible Arrangements® make a great choice because they include delicious sweet treats along with a beautiful flower bouquet for a unique way to show you care.
Parting Thoughts
Parenting is non-stop hard work, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. Luckily, there are ways to let her know she’s not alone in this journey. Even if you can’t do any of these things, simply sending a text message or writing a heartfelt card letting your friend know you’re thinking of her can make a world of difference as she navigates parenthood.
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