10 things to say to a new mom
Becoming a mom is for sure one of the most beautiful moments in a woman’s life, but it can also be one of the most challenging. At a time when they can be at their most vulnerable, let’s drown them with words of love and comfort! Here are 10 things that they would probably love to hear.
1 – You did it! Part 1 - Pregnancy
You shared your body for nine months with someone else. You survived nausea, back pain, insomnia. You were extra cautious for everything. You stopped eating your favorite foods. And you created a little human! You are amazing!
2- You did it! Part 2 - Delivery
Whether you pushed the baby out, had a doctor cut your stomach open or went through the adoption process, you did it and you rocked it! You are a superhuman!
3 – You look beautiful
Because she might not feel like herself with sleep deprivation and post-baby body, every compliment is a very sweet thing to hear. Especially often and especially from her partner!
4 – You are doing great
In the midst of this new journey, it is so easy to feel overwhelmed. It is always reassuring when your family, your friends and even strangers tell you that you are doing a great job with your little one(s).
5 – Your baby is perfect
If baby is cute, say how cute she is. Otherwise, mention how perfect her little hands, mouth and toes are. New mamas love to hear nice things about their little ones. It makes them feel proud and happy.
6 – I am here to help you – Ask for whatever you need
I will bring your family a healthy meal, I will load the washing machine, I will hold the baby while you shower, I will take the other kids/dog to the park. I am here to help you so be honest and tell me what you need.
7 – Ask me to leave whenever you want
I am so happy to see you and your newborn, but I know how tired you are. I will go as soon as you want me too. And I will not feel insulted at all.
8 – It gets easier
The first few weeks can be very tough. The mix of sleep deprivation, the hormonal rollercoaster, the recovery, the responsibility for this brand new life, a new routine (or its absence) can make mom’s life very challenging. But it gets easier with time. And it is important to tell her that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
9 - I booked you a massage/pedicure/girls night out
Sometimes just one or two hours for herself can refresh mom more than sleep. Now she is a mom. But she is still a woman, a wife, a friend, a sister, and independent human that needs time for herself.
10 - Feel free to reach out whenever you need it, day and night
Call me whenever you need it. I might not be able to help. But I am able to listen to you. And that will already make you feel better!
This beautiful family inspired me to write this article. They came to my Upper West Side studio for their newborn session recently. During our three-hour session, I think that dad told mom at least five times (!) how beautiful she was and how great she was doing. I am sure it made her feel as beautiful as she was (look at her – I wish I had that skin and glow every day!) and confident in her new parenting role! And it made me so happy to witness so much love, for their little munchkin and for each other. And to feel surrounded by love in general. I think it shines through their pictures, don’t you think?
If you are interested in booking a portrait session in my studio for your growing family, contact me by clicking on the button below.
If you would like to see more of my newborn art, click on the link below for my newborn portfolio.