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New grandparent tips, in big text

A new baby is coming. These new grandparent tips show how to help in ways the family will love. Use the “Bigger text” button, or have this page read aloud.

What helps the family most

  • Ask the parents what they need.
  • Bring cooked food.
  • Help with cleaning, shopping and errands (AAP).
  • Give the parents a break: take the baby for a walk in the pram.
  • Keep visits short in the first weeks.

Sharing advice kindly

  • Ask first: “Would you like a tip?”
  • Praise the parents often.
  • Share calm words when the baby cries a lot: it is hard for new parents.

What has changed since your time

Advice changes over the years. For example, babies now always sleep on their back (NHS). Ask the parents what their midwife or doctor told them.

Keeping the baby well

  • Wash your hands before you hold the baby (NHS Wales).
  • If you have a cold sore, or had one recently, do not kiss the baby. The top of the head is the safest place for a kiss (NHS Wales).
  • Stay away if you are ill.

Time with the older children

Older children can feel a little left out when a baby arrives. Plan special time with them: a book, a walk, the park or a sleepover at your home (AAP).

Before the birth: follow the countdown

Ask the parents for their family page link to follow the countdown, guess the birthday and leave a message. See Share with family.

Questions people ask

How can I help without taking over?

Ask the parents what they need. Cleaning, shopping and errands often help most (AAP), and let the parents decide how they care for their baby.

Can I kiss the baby?

If you have a cold sore, or had one recently, do not kiss the baby. Otherwise the top of the head is safest, and everyone should wash their hands first (NHS Wales).

How should I give advice?

Ask first, and remember that advice changes over time: for example, babies now sleep on their back (NHS).

How can I help the older children?

Plan special time with them, like reading together, a trip to the park or a sleepover, so they do not feel left out (AAP).

What should I bring when I visit?

Food the family can heat up easily is a lovely gift. Ask about allergies and what they like first.

Should I get vaccinated before meeting the baby?

Babies under 1 are at the greatest risk from whooping cough, and the CDC recommends this vaccine for adults too (CDC). Ask your own doctor what you need.

Read the full guide: Grandparents’ guide

Sources

Urgent signs · call the doctor now