Week 1: Welcoming Baby Home

Having a baby is one of life's most joyous occasions, but it can also be a stressful time for new parents.

 In addition to getting to know their new bundle of joy, parents may also feel the pressure to welcome visitors who want to meet the new addition to the family. While having friends and family around can be great, it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help make the process easier.

Set Boundaries

It's important to remember that setting boundaries is crucial. You don't have to say yes to every visitor who wants to meet the baby, and feeling protective over your time with the baby is normal! Make sure visitors understand that the priority is the health and well-being of the new family. One way to do this is to make a physical sign at the front of the house that lists rules such as washing hands, taking off shoes, and not coming in if they're feeling ill. This helps to ensure that visitors are respectful of your space and your baby's health.

Create a Schedule

Another way to make the process of welcoming visitors easier is to create a schedule. Assign a point person to communicate with friends and family, and designate certain times of the day for visitors. This can help reduce the disruption to your routine, and also ensure that you have enough time to take care of yourself and your newborn.

Asking for help

Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for help! You'll have your hands full with your new baby, and having family and friends pitch in with household chores or meal prep can be a real lifesaver. Your visitors should understand that helping you is just as important as meeting the baby. Remember, the most important thing is to take care of yourself and your baby. Everything else can wait.