One post tagged with "support"

Small acts of care build stronger teams — here’s how.

The newborn phase is a beautiful, chaotic whirlwind. But for your partner, it’s also a time of intense physical recovery, massive hormonal shifts, and overwhelming responsibility—especially if she is breastfeeding.

It's easy to feel a little lost. You want to help, but you're not sure how. The single most common (and least helpful) question we ask is: "What can I do to help?"

It’s a great intention, but it puts the mental load of delegating right back on her.

Being an equal teammate isn't about "helping" your partner—it's about parenting with her. It's about being proactive, not reactive. Here are small things you can do that make a massive difference.

1. Be the "Primary Carer" of Something​

Don't just be the assistant. Own a domain. This frees up your partner's mental space completely.

• You are in charge of all bottle washing and sterilising.
• You are in charge of bath time, every single night.
• You are in charge of stocking the nappy station.
• You make dinner. Every night. (Even if "making" means ordering UberEats).

2. Manage Her Basic Needs​

Your partner is likely so focused on the baby she is forgetting to take care of herself.

• Water: Put a fresh, full water bottle next to her every time she sits down to feed.
• Food: She will be starving. Make her snacks she can eat with one hand. Cut up her dinner for her.
• Sleep: When you get home from work (or on your "shift"), take the baby and say, "Go have a nap for an hour. I've got this. Don't come out."

3. Be the Gatekeeper​

You are the protector of your new family. Your partner should not be stressing about house guests.

• Manage the visitors. Be the one to say, "Now's not a good time," or "We'd love to see you, but we can only do 30 minutes."
• If people do come over, make them useful. "It's so great to see you. Would you mind folding that load of washing?"

4. Watch for Burnout (and Listen)​

She might be irritable, weepy, or quiet. Don't try to "fix" her feelings. Just validate them.

• Instead of "It's not that bad," try "This is really hard. You're right."
• Ask: "How are you feeling today?" And then just listen.
• Give her compliments that aren't about the baby. "You are handling this with so much strength," or simply, "I love you."

ReadyDad is built to give you these reminders. A simple nudge: "Has your partner eaten lunch?" or "Ask her how she's really feeling." Small acts of proactive care are what build a strong, resilient team.