They can:
- Learn about breastfeeding and what’s normal
- Provide encouragement
- Bring baby to mom for feeds
- Make sure mom is comfortable
- Help position mom, baby, or pillows
- Bring mom water and a snack
- Be the gatekeeper regarding visitors, even the new grandparents
- Burp or calm the baby
- Volunteer to change baby or bathe baby
- Play with baby, get their own turn bonding
- Tag team so each person can get some real rest
- Check their expectation on what the house should look like etc.
- Tend to the other household chores
- Arrange for help with the house or baby
Listen/be supportive
- Know the warning signs and when to call the doctor for mom’s physical or mental health
- Know when to call the baby’s doctor