Asking For Help After Having a Baby

“Let me know if you need anything!” We hear it all the time. Do they really mean it? It can be so hard to ask for help. I always feel like I am burdening others by asking them for help. But, If they didn’t want to help, they wouldn’t have offered…

So what are some things to say when people say “Let me know if you need anything?” These are some ways I asked for help.

1. Set up a “Mealtrain.” – This was one of the most helpful things for us after we had our baby. We used Mealtrain.com (I am in no way affiliated with Mealtrain.com.) Or better yet, ask someone to set it up for you! The website allowed us to choose the dates we wanted to receive meals. We set it up so there were 14 slots for our friends and family to claim. We spaced them out every other day for 4 weeks. This was such a great help to take one meal every few days off of our own task list. Some people preferred to just drop off food as it was convenient for them without signing up online, we were completely fine with this! All food was appreciated and completely eaten.
2. Housework – Laundry never ends. Dishes barely ever end. These are things anyone could help you with! Folding towels is so easy, and such a big relief to go to the linen closet and pull out a fresh towel when you finally find time to shower. Tidying up the house is also really easy for someone to do in 5 minutes. It makes such a big difference to have a tidy room and not a disheveled messy chaotic atmosphere.
3. Errands – Let someone else grab your groceries for you. Need something from the pharmacy? Let them pick it up. These tasks are little things, but when you’re exhausted and recovering, they can be a big burden. How about taking that Amazon return to the drop-off site?
4. Help with other Children – Can they bring your older child to the local playground? The movies? Maybe for a walk around the block? Or even just to spend some time playing with them while everyone stays at the home. There are lots of options based on your comfort level.
5. Help with the Baby – From holding the baby and keeping them company while you get things done to changing diapers. Having someone else around who is well-rested and ready to lend a hand is so nice. This is pretty much the majority of what my post-partum doula did for me and I would hire her again in an instant. Also, everyone loves to see and hold a baby. They are so fresh, it’s a special time that anyone would enjoy, so don’t feel like you are a burden by asking for help.

Did I miss anything? What was the number one thing you asked for help with after you had a baby? Let me know!