My friend Sarah just gave birth to a beautiful baby girl – welcome, Addison! Another friend is organizing meals to be brought for their family. The same generosity was extended to us when I had Tate and it was so wonderful!

If you’re pregnant or wanting to help out a new mom, here are some things to consider:

General tips for bringing meals to others:

1. Ask about any food allergies or disliked foods.

2. Whenever possible, bring the meal in containers that don’t need to be returned.

3. Think out of the box – in addition to the main meal, include some fresh fruit, a breakfast item or a favorite beverage.

4. If you live out of town, or are unable to prepare a meal, send a gift certificate for a restaurant with delivery or takeout.

5. Get a group of the new mom’s friends together and go to Let’s Dish or a similar place for freezer meal preparation. Give her advance notice, though, so there’s enough room in her freezer!

Tips for the expecting/new mom:

1. Probably a lot of people people will ask what they can do to help you. Ask the most organized of these people to coordinate a meal schedule. Then when anyone else offers to bring a meal, direct him/her to this person. All of the following information should be shared with your organizer to simplify your life!

2. Decide when you want meals to start – perhaps a little later if you have family there to help right away.

3. Consider how often you want to receive meals. Daily might be too much, especially if it’s just two of you eating. For instance, Sarah is receiving meals for two days, then one day off to allow some time for leftovers.

4. Be sure to let people know about any food allergies or things you don’t like.

If you’re trying to fill your own freezer in preparation for baby’s arrival, check out these ideas from Erin at $5 Dinners. Her baby is due soon, so most of the items are crossed off her checklist, but there are links to most of the super-affordable recipes. 

Another idea is this cookbook by Lisa Jost – it looks great, does anyone have it already and can give a review? The Doula’s Cookbook for New Moms: Ideas & Recipes for a New Parent, Busy Parent or Doula.

What are some favorite meals you’ve received? What’s your go-to meal to bring to a family with a new baby?

Photo Courtesy:
EraPhernalia Vintage

Related posts:

1. Bringing Kids to a Restaurant
2. Top Ten Ways to Help a Pregnant Woman
3. An Indoor Picnic