We Always Hear That Raising Kids Takes A Village, But Here’s How New Parents Can Actually Ask For Help
Becoming a new parent is a rollercoaster filled with sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and those first magical smiles.
But, if we’re being honest, the transition to suddenly being responsible for the life of a tiny new human is freaking overwhelming.
It can feel like joining a club where everyone else seems to know the secret handshake, and you’re left wondering when you missed the parenting orientation.
So, how do you navigate this new world without entirely losing your sanity? The answer is surprisingly simple and quite old-school: ask for help.
Here’s how to do just that without feeling like you’re imposing on your friends and family.
Be Specific About What You Need
It’s a lot easier for people to pitch in if they know exactly what you need. After all, we can’t expect our loved ones to be mind readers.
Do you need someone to watch the little one for an hour while you catch a nap? Or maybe you just want a home-cooked meal? Stop hesitating or questioning your request, and just say it. You’ll probably find that people are more willing to step up.
Create A Support System
Beaunitta Van Wyk/peopleimages.com – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people
This is sometimes easier said than done, especially if you don’t know many people in your town or aren’t close with your family.
However, if you can, you should consider creating a shared calendar or using apps designed for families.
You can invite your own parents, for instance, to join the shared calendar. Then, whenever you have specific time periods that you need help with childcare, your loved ones will know and have the ability to “sign up” for that shift.
It’s organized, it’s efficient, and it is one way to remove the awkwardness of asking face-to-face.
Accept Help Even If You Haven’t Asked
This one can be a toughie for many new parents and people in general. You might feel bad accepting unsolicited assistance. But, if someone offers, just say yes.
Why should you put yourself through more stress just to complete a task yourself if someone else is ready and willing to do it? Remember, you have to preserve your energy as much as you can right now.
So, even if it’s just a friend taking out the trash or your sibling holding your baby while you take a shower, accept the little win.
Saying “yes” to help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of being human.
Make It A Social Event
You might not always be in the mood to socialize with loved ones after welcoming a baby. However, after becoming a new parent, you’ll soon realize that the opportunities to socialize are a bit more limited– at least until you’re out of the newborn stage.
So, you might eventually find yourself going stir-crazy and craving some good old-fashioned chill time. This is the perfect opportunity for a win-win situation.
You probably have friends or loved ones who have been dying to see you amidst all of the new baby chaos. Simply invite them over and get your socializing in while doing some chores.
You could sit on the couch with your best friend, for instance, and ask for her help folding laundry while you two catch up.
You both get some social time while also getting a helping hand.
You Can Always Express Gratitude
Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing at parenthood. It means you’re smart enough to know that raising a child takes a village. Your friends and family get to be part of your child’s life, and you get a little breather.
So, instead of fearing asking, you can just show your appreciation after finally accepting assistance.
A thank-you note or a simple, heartfelt “thanks” goes a long way. It shows that you don’t take their help for granted, and it nurtures a kind environment for your new baby to grow up in.
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