When you're preparing for a baby, it's easy to spend hours researching strollers, decorating the nursery, and building the perfect baby registry. While those things can be fun, one of the most valuable things you can do before delivery is build your support system. The first two weeks after bringing your baby home are often the most challenging, and the first few months are a big adjustment for the whole family. Having a plan for who can help can make all the difference.
Before your baby arrives, think about who you can count on and how they can support you. Set the expectation that visitors are there to help, not just to hold the baby. A friend can bring a meal, a grandparent can fold laundry, or a neighbor can walk the dog while you rest. These small acts of kindness can take a tremendous amount of pressure off new parents. You don't have to do everything yourself, and the people who care about you are often grateful to have specific ways to help.
If you have a partner, talk before delivery about how you'll share the overnight responsibilities. Even if one parent is breastfeeding, there may be ways to divide the workload so everyone gets a little more rest. If family or friends are available, consider whether someone could help with a morning shift, an afternoon break, or a few hours overnight. Some families also choose to hire a newborn care specialist or postpartum doula for extra support during those early weeks. There isn't one right way to build your village. What matters is having a plan before you're running on very little sleep.
Before your baby arrives, one of the most important things you can prepare is not a nursery or a registry, but a support system. Accepting help is part of caring for yourself so you can care for your baby. When you have people around you who can share the load, you can spend less time worrying about how you'll manage and more time adjusting to life with your newborn.
Dr. Sarah Wiersma
is the owner of PeaPod Pediatrics and a board certified pediatrician and breastfeeding medicine specialist.
Schedule a Meet & Greet to meet Dr. Wiersma and find out how direct pediatric care can support your family.
