Need some space? Here’s how to handle visitors after giving birth
- Set some ground rules
In terms of managing visitors after baby is born, be clear on the ground rules before your baby arrives to manage well-wishers’ expectations. You’ll need time to adjust to becoming new parents and get to know your new arrival. Say you won’t be wanting visitors for a set period of time—whatever period works with you and your partner. People can then come to terms with that and respect your wishes.
- Say no to surprise baby visitors
Make it clear to family and friends that you’d prefer not to have surprise visitors after your baby is born. Everyone can plan with you when they come or give you a call first. That way, you’re not feeling stressed or overwhelmed and you can plan baby visitors around times that work for you.
- Consider who you invite over
You’re going to be feeling overwhelmed by all the changes of becoming a new mom or dad. Don’t be afraid to be selective in who you have over to visit your baby. You don’t want to be feeling judged as a parent, so make sure you veto any trips from people who may make you feel bad. Nobody needs unwanted, unhelpful comments that the house is a mess! See here for a handy checklist of new parent emotions that are also entirely normal.
- Accept offers of help
Here’s how to help a new mom or dad! If family and friends are desperate to help you out, don’t refuse their kind offers. Use it to your advantage and delegate tasks you just simply don’t have time for at the moment. Suggest things that would be helpful to you, like cleaning clean your house, preparing some meals, or even running and errand or two.
- Be prepared for unwanted parenting advice
Along with unwanted visitors, new parents sometimes receive unwanted parenting advice—whether that’s from strangers in public, friends, or family— which can be frustrating and confusing when you’re a new mom or dad. While everyone believes their advice and opinions are helpful, you may end up feeling judged as a parent, criticized and like you’re doing the wrong thing for your baby. The best response? “That may have been right for you, this way has been working well for us.” See our best breastfeeding comebacks here.
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