How to Support a Friend Who Just Became a Parent

Author: The Baby Gift Company | Date: 15/08/2025

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most beautiful milestones however it’s also one of the most exhausting. Between sleepless nights, endless feeding sessions, and adjusting to a whole new routine, new parents often find themselves feeling overwhelmed and in need of both practical help and emotional support.

Whether it’s your best friend, sibling, or colleague who has just welcomed a baby, there are many ways you can show up for them. From lending a helping hand to giving thoughtful new parent gifts, your support can make a world of difference during those early days.

Understanding the Challenges New Parents Face

Parenthood brings joy, but the early months can be a whirlwind of emotions and demands.

Common new parent struggles include:

1. Sleep deprivation – Newborns have irregular sleep patterns, leaving parents running on very little rest.
2. Feeding challenges – Whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding, establishing a feeding routine can be stressful.
3. Physical recovery – Birth recovery can take weeks or months, and parents often underestimate how much rest they truly need.
4. Emotional changes – Hormonal shifts and the huge life adjustment can lead to mood swings, anxiety, or even postnatal depression.
5. Loss of personal time – With a newborn’s constant needs, parents may feel like they have little to no time for themselves.

Recognising these challenges will help you approach your friend with empathy and realistic ways to support them.

Challenges as a Working Parent of a Baby

For parents returning to work soon after having a baby, the challenges multiply. Balancing a career with the demands of a newborn often means:

• Limited time together – Working parents may struggle with guilt about being away from their baby.
• Juggling routines – Early starts, daycare drop-offs, and unpredictable baby needs can disrupt work schedules.
• Exhaustion – Combining work responsibilities with night feeds can quickly lead to burnout.
• Finding reliable childcare – The search for trustworthy, affordable care can be stressful and time-consuming.
• Pressure to “do it all” – Many working parents feel they must excel at work and home, which can lead to overwhelm.

If your friend is a working parent, practical support like dropping off dinner, offering babysitting, or simply being a listening ear, can help lighten their load.

Ways to Offer Practical Help

One of the greatest things you can give a new parent is your time. Simple acts like preparing a meal, running errands, or watching the baby so they can take a nap can be incredibly valuable.

Think about tasks that might seem small but save them mental energy like folding laundry, tidying up, or making a grocery run. Practical help takes pressure off and allows them to focus on bonding with their baby.

Be a Good Listener

Parenthood can be emotionally overwhelming. Sometimes, new parents just need someone to listen without judgment or unsolicited advice. Ask them how they’re feeling, and let them share the highs and lows of their journey.

Active listening shows that you care and helps them feel supported, especially during moments of self-doubt or exhaustion.

Give the Gift of Self-Care

Amid caring for a newborn, parents often forget to care for themselves. Thoughtful self-care wellness gifts can provide moments of relaxation and help them recharge. At The Baby Gift Company, we offer beautiful pamper gifts for new mums who deserve a little TLC:

• Stress Soother Essential Oils – A calming blend designed to help new parents unwind and reduce stress.
• Spa Gel Face Mask – Perfect for a quick, cooling pick-me-up during nap time.
• Pamper Mum Gift Box – A curated collection of indulgent treats, from soothing skincare to keepsakes, helping mums feel refreshed and valued.

These gifts are not just luxurious, they’re a gentle reminder that the parent’s wellbeing matters just as much as the baby’s.

Respect Their Space & Routine

While your enthusiasm to visit the new arrival is understandable, always check in first. New parents are adjusting to feeding schedules, naps, and recovery, so they may not be ready for visitors at certain times.

Offer to visit at a time that suits them or even better, let them know you’re happy to drop off food, groceries, or gifts without expecting to stay.

Celebrate Their Achievements

From surviving the first week of parenthood to mastering the swaddle, every milestone deserves recognition. Send an encouraging message, drop off a small treat, or simply acknowledge how well they’re doing. A few kind words can make their day.

Continue Checking In

Support shouldn’t stop after the first few weeks. Parenthood is an ongoing journey, and challenges evolve over time. Keep checking in with a quick message or by planning small catch-ups to remind them you’re there for the long haul.

In Summary: Supporting a Friend Through Early Parenthood

Becoming a parent is life-changing, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming when friends and family rally around with love and support. Whether you’re lending a hand, offering a listening ear, or gifting Mum and Dad something special from The Baby Gift Company, your thoughtfulness will be remembered long after the newborn days have passed.