Looks like the stork's been busy! It's the time of year when it seems everyone knows someone who's having or just had a baby. How exciting! Just remember that the new mom and dad (and baby too!) will be tired and likely a bit preoccupied. So follow our easy tips to help them welcome their new bundle of joy into the world without adding to their workload:
- Respond to the announcement according to how you found out. If they called you, that's easy - just keep talking on the other end of the phone! But if you're not one of the few people they'll have time to call, they might have announced it via email or Facebook. Follow their lead and respond with your congratulations in the same manner since you know it's a device they'll be checking at least semi-frequently.
- Make things easy. Yes, we're all curious how much the little guy weighed or what the little girl's middle name is but if they didn't include it in their announcement, don't ask. Not that it's a big secret, they probably just forgot. However, your simple question repeated by everyone else who wants to know amounts to a ton of responses required on their part when they might have something a little more important to focus on for the moment! Be patient - you'll get your info soon enough.
- Offer to visit but let them dictate when and where. Some moms are bored out of their minds in the hospital and would love visitors, others would prefer a few days to recuperate on their own and have you visit them at home.
- Bring a small gift when you visit. Don't stress - it can be as simple as a card or flowers. Or go for a cute onesie (they're inexpensive, irresistable to buy, and we guarantee the newbie has already gone through all the ones mom and dad brought to the hospital!) or a tiny keepsake, like a rattle or a picture frame. Food is also always welcome - whether it's a home-baked snack or something you picked up along the way. Hospital food gets old really quickly!
And of course, it can't hurt to send an ecard. Sending via email allows you to get your message out now and lets them check it at their convenience. Sending via Facebook distinguishes you from all the other well-wishers and decorates their wall with a cute baby card. No matter which method you choose, be sure to congratulate them and remind them what a rewarding experience they're embarking on - they might have forgotten after the 3rd night with no sleep!
 Congratulations |
 No more sleeping in |
 Congratulations |
 Congratulations (girl) |
 Cutest Kid Award |
 Congratulations (boy) |
