How to Console a Tired Parent of a Baby

When a new parent in your life has the glazed look of a zombie, she's likely completely sleep-deprived. The long nights of feeding, listening, rocking and trying to squeeze in a few moments of sleep are hardly conducive to feeling energized. Do your friend a solid favor by being nearby for commiseration, a helping hand and maybe being a babysitter so she can have a long nap.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask your friend if it's OK to visit before showing up at her door. New parents's homes tend to be a bit disheveled, as are their appearances. Your friend might be embarrassed if you show up without warning, even if you were hoping to come by and lend a hand. HealthyChildren.org reminds new parents that good friends will respect the new family's need for privacy, so keep that in mind when you schedule a visit and don't be offended if the answer is "not right now."

    • 2

      Lend a listening ear if the new parent just needs someone to talk to. Some moms aren't necessarily looking for a helping hand, but allowing your friend to vent for a little while might be just as therapeutic. When listening, wait to offer advice until it's asked for.

    • 3

      Share your experiences if you've had your own children. New parents often take comfort in the idea that they're not alone, but also that their tiny night owls are completely normal. Your friend might need the support of hearing about your sleepless nights and new parent cluelessness to make her feel a bit better about her own circumstances.

    • 4

      Offer advice, but only if the new parent asks you for your opinion. While it can help to give ideas for helping babies sleep more easily -- using a white noise machine, giving a warm bath, safely swaddling with a thin blanket -- suggestions can sound condescending if your friend has already tried it all. Give ideas that worked for you, but don't be offended if the sleepy parent doesn't take you up on your offer for advice.

    • 5

      Offer to watch the baby for an hour or two while the new mom or dad takes a nap. Even if the baby is breastfeeding, you can wait until just after a feeding to entertain and rock the new baby while the new parent sneaks in 40 winks. While other helpers might offer meals or laundry service, an hour of sleep might be the most valuable gift of all.

    • 6

      Make yourself available via phone, text, email and whatever else so your friend can get in touch with you. She might want to vent or need a nap-time babysitter. Knowing that you're available can make her more likely to reach out.

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