There are two new babies in my neighborhood, which means I get to do one of my FAVORITE things! I get to bring the mommy a meal and see her sweet newborn in his own home. I love being able to picture babies in their own homes and I love celebrating new life and encouraging other moms. I remember having a colicky baby and being so thankful that someone brought a meal. I also remember eating peanut butter out of a jar because I had no time to chop veggies and prep something really healthy. Can we say survival mode?? Over the years, I’ve been on the giving and receiving end more than once, so I thought I would pass along some tips and ideas.
Contact the mom
She might have a meal train organized through a website like “Take them a meal”. If so, you can see what days are available and what others are bringing to help minimize duplication. If not, text and ask for a good time to receive a meal. You can find out preferences and allergies if needed. If her meal schedule is full, contact the mom directly when it is over – most moms will welcome a meal anytime!! This doesn’t happen a lot, in fact I’ve only run into it one time, but sometimes due to food allergies, picky eaters, or unusual diets, moms do not want meals to be delivered. In this case, a gift card to a grocery store or kids clothing store is a great substitute if you still want to help her celebrate and recover.
Is the mom nursing?
If so, there are certain foods to avoid. Vegetables that cause gas (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower) can give the baby gas. Acidic foods like tomato sauce can upset baby as well. Many nursing moms avoid dairy for a number of reasons. Heavy foods usually don’t go over so well. Just ask.
Homemade hits
When I take a home made meal to a new mom, here are some of my go-to menus:
- Baked chicken, green beans, roasted potatoes & carrots
- Egg casserole, fruit salad
- Breakfast burritos, fruit salad
- Pulled pork, rolls, veggie tray
- Ham, baked sweet potatoes, salad
- Salad in a jar for easy lunches (several for grab and go during the week)
- Smoothie kits for a super quick snack or breakfast
- Muffins, fruit, nuts, energy balls, treats for older children
Need to hit the easy button?
There have been times when I wanted to reach out with a meal but I was pressed for time. I have used lots of short cuts through the years. Here are a few of them:
- Fried or rotisserie chicken and sides from the grocery store
- Honey baked ham or turkey and sides
- Gift card to a nearby restaurant, grocery store or kid’s clothing store
- Door dash delivery
- Frozen meal kit from “Time for Dinner” or a similar venue
A word about dessert
Every mom is different, but I have a hard time with a huge batch of cookies or an entire cake in my house. I requested no desserts or a small treat for the kids. In general, I don’t include dessert unless it is small and just one serving per person. Fruit makes a great dessert. You have to feel this one out, but I think it is worth a mention. Many moms are ready to drop some weight and when lots of wonderful desserts show up, it can be a real setback or temptation for them.
Protect the new baby’s health
Here are few health-related items worth mentioning. I usually leave my children at home or waiting in the car when I drop off a meal. New moms usually aren’t up for entertaining and children can pass along germs very easily. If you are going to be around a new baby for longer than just a quick drop off of a meal, wash your hands carefully before holding the baby. Do not kiss the baby. Arrive in fresh clothes if you are a smoker and of course, do not smoke around the baby. Have your shots up-to-date, including whooping cough and flu.
Other ideas
If you can get a green light from the mom (again, feel it out), I bet she would welcome a little help while you are there. I have had friends sweep the steps, roll the trash can in from the curb, put a few items in the dishwasher or put the meal they brought in the fridge or oven. Just a little help can be a big blessing.
- If you are cooking, go ahead and double up and dinner will be done for your family as well.
- Paper plates are fun and helpful.
- Small gift(s) for the baby and/or older siblings is a fun and thoughtful touch.
- Meals in containers that do not need to be returned is appreciated.
- A small pampering gift for the recovering mom is super sweet ideas include bath items, herbal teas, dark chocolate (not to be share with kids)
Aren’t these babies adorable? I hope this gave you some ideas and inspiration to bless the new moms in your life!
