
If you have had a family member or close friend just give birth, here are my top 10 tips on hospital visiting.
- Most importantly, within a day of giving birth visits should be limited to immediate family only.
- Stay no longer than 15 minutes. It’s an exhausting business receiving visitors and dealing with a new born.
- Don’t turn up unannounced. Text the father and ask when it might be convenient to visit.
- Bring a small gift, not only for the new baby but for the sibling/s too who might be feeling a little left out with all the excitement of the new arrival.
- Never presume that you can touch or hold the precious bundle without asking first.
- Don’t visit if you are unwell, have a cold or have recently returned from an overseas visit. The parents will not thank you for spreading germs!
- If you really must take a photo, never presume that it can be shared on social media. Ask both parents first.
- Never use the visit as a way of promoting your suitability as a godparent!
- It’s only polite to step out of the room if the medical staff need to do their checks on the mother or baby.
- Organise with the father when you can deliver a home-cooked meal for the family when they finally return home. They will be eternally grateful for your continued support after the excitement has died down.