01/06/2026
Visiting family or friends with a new baby? Here are a few ways to be the guests they'll be happy to see.
• Don’t visit if you have been unwell or have been around anyone who is/has been unwell. Remember hygiene measures such as hand washing, not smoking before a visit, not wearing strong smelling fragrances as these can contain chemicals that are toxic to babies, and never ever kiss the baby.
• Don't arrive unannounced - check if they are ready for visitors and, if so, when works best for them. If they say "not yet", don't take it personally. Rest and recovery come first.
• Bring something useful; a meal, snacks, coffee or even an offer to pick up essentials on the way.
• Respect any boundaries parents have in place.
• Don't expect to hold the baby or be hosted. New parents are running on very little sleep and a lot of love.
• Offer practical help. Emptying the dishwasher, running a hoover around or entertaining any siblings is often so valuable.
• Avoid comments about parenting choices, unsolicited advice or comments on postnatal recovery. Support beats opinions every time.
• Keep visits short unless you're specifically invited to stay longer.
The best visitors don't just come to meet the baby – they come to support the whole family.
What would you add to the list?
[Image description 1: Infographic with tips for visiting a newborn: Only visit if well; ask before visiting; offer help with food or shopping. Features heart, checklist, shopping bag, and food icons. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.].
[Image description2: Infographic with tips for visiting a newborn: avoid strong scents, don’t hold baby unless invited, wash hands, never kiss the baby, offer help, avoid unsolicited advice, and keep visits short. Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.].