Bringing Dinner for Parents of Newborn

Bringing over a dinner that she can heat up that night or save to heat up another night or freeze like a lasagna that heats and freezes well. I would drop it off and visit for a little bit...and don't think a gift is necessary.

I just had baby number 2 and anyone that brought me food was a saint! Food is the best gift you can give (a maybe a little help in the house)!-www.weelicious.com

If you don't cook pick something up-like Pasta Bravo, El Pollo Loco, chinese. I'd stay away from true fast food like Mc Donalds. I'd stay for just a couple mins to see the baby and say hi.

Drop it off. If the mama wants you to hold the new baby, she will volunteer...but still do not stay long. New mamas often volunteer for you to stay because they are trying to be polite, but (as you know!) new moms want to eat and sleep!

Easy recipe that also freezes well

Good Goulash

Layer #1:
Cook 6 oz. of egg noodles. Place in the bottom of a casserole dish (9x9 will make a deep dish, 9x13 a more shallow) sprayed with cooking spray.
Layer #2:
Combine 8 oz. cream cheese, softened, with 8 oz. sour cream. Add in four green onions (scallions) chopped. Spread this over the noodles.

Layer #3:
Cook 1 lb. ground beef. Add 15 oz. of tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper, and some italian seasoning - just taste it! Cook until thickened a little. Spread over Layer #2.

Top with shredded cheddar (about 1 cup). Cook for 30 min at 350 degrees until bubbly. Freezes great, too. If freezing, leave cheese off (it gets icky). ALSO, if freezing, put plastic wrap over the tomato sauce, not foil. Foil causes a reaction with the acid in tomato.

Take care!!

I have brought meals on several occasions. Typically I bring a full meal and leave it with them. May I suggest that you use disposable aluminum pans? It speeds up the cleaning process for them and then they don't have to figure out which dish belongs to which person (especially if they get a week's worth of meal deliveries). As for meals, try to avoid spicy foods and cruciferous vegetable such as broccoli, cauliflower cabbage and brussel sprouts. Usually chicken, rice, and a salad or veggie are always a good choice. I often like to pack a small dessert too, which is always a nice surprise for the recipient couple.

Being on the receiving end of dinner before, this is my advice:

--Food: Something simple, easy to clean up, perhaps in dishes that they are not required to return to you. (And avoid things that could give momma and baby gas) I had someone bring us sandwiches premade...for me, that was wonderful. Any food I didn't have to make was wonderful! You may want to check to make sure they aren't allergic to anything first though.

--Visiting: I would suggest go solo and just drop it off. I was okay with whoever was bringing dinner to see the baby for a couple minutes, but was not up to visiting. Being new parents, we were both exhausted! If you already have a gift and were planning on it anyway, it would be an appropriate time to also drop it off (don't expect her to open it while there...again, they're probably exhausted!)

Good luck and how wonderful that you are doing this for them....especially with one on the way for you!

I have done this for someone at my church. I believe the proper protocol is to just drop it off. As far as I know you are just helping out to provide a meal so new mama does not have to cook. Last thing a new mama needs is company every night. LOL I just said I had to run so they did not feel obligated to invite me to stay. In my case she had a broken leg so she did not have a little one. I imagine you can sneek a peek at the new arrival. I would say a gift is not in order. Good luck and that is a nice thing you are doing. : )

I keep seeing people tell you to drop it off and leave...I would check w/ the couple and see if they would like me to sit w/ baby while they have dinner so they can eat without having to worry about him/her and then leave right after or offer to help clean up.

As for the meal...a casserole or one dish meal is easiest, but you might want to ask for their input as someone else already suggested. This would probbaly please them the most.

Good luck to you.
-I.

Hello,
You can do either or. It's normal. You can take something for the mother and baby, or mother, or just for the baby. You can also bring a dish. It does not have to be fancy since a lot of mom's are still not in the appetite mood but it depends. You can also take your husband with you unless he does not want to go. When you get there and noticed that it's just all female, then you can respectfully dismiss yourself. I have been to these things all the time. I mostly see both husbands and wives. It's more of a family get together. Very few I get there with my husband and it's mostly women. I joke around telling everyone it's a get-away from their kids and husbands to throw out any subject they want to discuss without their husbands...lol.. I see some bring gift and dish majority of the time. Some just pop in for about ten to fifteen minutes then leave depending on their activities for the rest of the day. Nothing formal. Just a get together and you might gain yourself more friends or might surprisingly run into someone you know :).

A few days after my daughter was born, we recieved a huge bowl of a cold chicken/fruit/nut salad. It was very healthy and could be eaten on demand. We also got lasagne, though that needed to be warmed up. The guests stayed breifly, like 10 min. Some offered any quick/brief help. That was great. I hope to return the favor someday.
Hope that helps.

Go by yourself - leave your husband at home with your child ;)

I would probably just leave the food for them, but I suppose it depends on the dynamics of the friendship. When one of my close friends had a baby, I made a nice dinner and we all ate together, but I brought everything (plates, utensils, napkins, food, condiments) and washed and packed it all up myself so they didn't have to do a thing - and made sure it was at a good time for them. With most other people, I just drop the food off, make a fuss over the baby for a few minutes, :) and leave.

You don't need to bring a gift - food is enough! When you take the food in, if you see a sink-full of dishes, wash them (if you feel so inclined). If your friend is anything like me, she will appreciate that gesture, but would likely never ask you to do it.

You probably know about any food restrictions that she has, so be sensitive to that - an acquaintance brought us homemade mac n cheese after my daughter was born, and I don't eat cheese, so that was kind of a bummer for me (my husband was thrilled, however, so it wasn't a total bust).
It would be great if you brought something that would have some left over for lunch the following day - like a good chili, a hearty stew with good french bread, spaghetti and meatballs, lasagne, whatever your friend likes to eat.

I imagine she wouldn't mind if you visit, but you may as well tell her to let you know if it isn't a good time, and you won't be hurt if she says it isn't! :)

You're a good friend to do this for the new Mama and her family!

I did something like this with the wives in my old unit. Its all up to you and your comfort level on whether you would like to stay and chat and see the new baby.. Some mothers in my unit saw the baby and some didnt just cause they had to be back to there families.

If you feel comfortable doing so, then visit for a little bit. Either way the family will be grateful to be brought dinner.

Hope this helps...
Megs

Bring the gift, bring the meal and chat for a little while, but leave it up to her on whether she asks you to stay or not. Do not bring the whole family. Most new Moms are so tired that it gives her added stress to have company.

Hi CM,

You probably know your friend better than anyone who has posted (including me!). What do you think she would like? She may be dying for adult company or just wishing that everyone would leave her alone because she's too tired to hold a conversation, hasn't bathed since the birth and looks like -- well, you know, you've been there! (Or, of course anywhere in between these two extremes.)

When I go to take meals to new parents or sick friends I let their responses guide me. I tell them outright that their feelings are of greatest importance and that if they're just not in the mood for company I will not be offended, but will look forward to visiting with them another time.

I have also found that people really appreciate it if you bring them a meal in disposable containers that they neither have to wash nor return. I also usually add in some nice paper or plastic plates and cutlery and napkins so they don't have to go to the trouble of cleaning up (yeah, I know it's not ecologically the soundest practice, but it's not like it's forever!), and I also like to bring flowers and a vase to beautify the table and refresh the spirit. Oh, and don't forget dessert! It doesn't have to be sinful. A fresh fruit salad is always nice.

All of the previous advice is good. If you are not much of a cook, you could even pick up their favorite take-out and it would still be appreciated.

I've taken dinners to lots of new moms - just drop it off. If the time is right and it's convenient often you'll get a peak at the new little one, but don't make a nuisance of yourself. I always try to bring something that has enough and would be easy leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day and if possible in a dish that doesn't have to be returned later. If you have to leave dishes with them, make sure you mark them with your name on a piece of tape or something. If many are bringing them meals then it might get hard to keep track of who's dishes belong to who.
A gift is not necessary, just well wishes and a quick exit.

I would drop off and visit for only a few minutes unless she asks you to stay and chat. As for dropping off a gift, only if you feel like it, since you already gave her one, it's not necessary. New mommy maybe tired and would like a quite dinner with new daddy. Hubby can go along to see the baby and chat with new daddy. I'd keep it short.
K. E

Drop the food, stay for a minute and then go. They need to be alone with the new baby and they will appreciate it. Gifts are always nice but not needed in this situation. Think of what kind of food they like and go with that. I can also be something you picked up from the deli or restaurant.

Hello CM, I think that's a wonderful gesture. Bringing the new parents a nice home cooked meal. A local church does this for me and my family once a week too and I have to tell you it's the best ever. Although we haven't had a new baby, one of our babies (my 10 yr old) is going through some medical issues right now which is why they are helping with meals.

Anyway, what they do is just introduce themselves (as I do not know all of them), let me know if the meal needs to be warmed up and they usually tell me what it is too. But right after they drop it off they usually leave.
Someone, during Christmas time, brought toys for my boys and just recently someone brought flowers. It was a very nice surprise.
Your gift is the meal. No need for anything else unless you want to. You also have to remember, they will probably tired so you don't want to stay too long unless they need something else??
You and the others are doing something great for these people. God Bless you all!
M.

Call ahead and see what the new mom would prefer. Some moms are dying for the company while others would really like to be left alone. Either way is fine but this way you're not imposing.
As for the gift, if you've already given one before - no need to do so again. Besides, your dish is very much your gift!

Hi there,
If you have already visited, I would just expect to stay for a minute to say hello to the baby. Unless they invite you for dinner, then I would just drop it off. If you are really good friends, why don't you offer to stay for a few hours and take care of the baby so the new mommy can take a nap. If you are making them a dinner, then I can assume that you are a good friend to them.
Lasagnas are really easy to make and are good for leftovers.
Good luck!

Sounds like you received tons of great advice. Our community is currently doing this for a mom whose son is undergoing chemotherapy.

One more little tidbit that you may want to pass around to the rest of the volunteer moms making dinners. Remind them to stick to meals that don't cause too much gas (you know how gassy foods and breastfeeding goes). Also, if the moms are sick, they should either switch days with someone else.

cm,
it's so nice of you to have signed up! i truly appreciated these meals after my birth last july. my friends pic-nic-ed on our family bed, did the dishes and went home. we had fresh veggies, fruits, bread and cheese! do ask the new mom what she wants to eat --any post partum cravings can be satisfied this way, and inquire if they'd prefer a visit or a drop off. your hubby could do a little yard work if needed or run another errand --like water bottles refills! if you are unable to reach them, i'd suggest avocado-orange-spinach salad with raspberry dressing, trail mix, fruit basket, whole grain bread basket with brie and cheddar, or veggie quiche and bluberry muffins with fruit platter and roasted almonds.
again, thank you for signing up for this and being SO thoughtful!
capuccino,
a.
ps: a sparlking beverage like fizzy water or ginger ale might also be real nice to bring, and champagen like to celebrate the new life...

You should definetely call and ask the day you're doing the food. Depending on how their day has gone will affect whether or not they want company or just a drop off. You shouldn't need to bring a gift for the baby. You've already done that, this is for Mom and Dad.
Some simple grilled chicken and a salad should be good. You can buy the chicken pre-seasoned at the grocery store so you don't have to worry about being able to do that part! Greek marinated chicken and a greek salad kit from produce is always a god one. You buy some pita bread too and some fruit salad for dessert.

First off, that is so wonderful of you to do this for a friend. A group of friends did this for me when I had both my babies, and I was so grateful. Speaking only from past experience, I was really grateful when they just stopped by quickly and dropped the food off. The truth is, I never had time to eat at regular dinner hours, and my life was so upside down getting used to the demands of a new baby. But when I DID have time to stop and eat sometimes at 10, or 11 or 12 at night, I was SOOOOO grateful the food was there and ready. Plus at this stage, you are so wrapped up in the baby, that visiting sometime is more of a chore than something you welcome. Give your friend some time before you bring your hubby with you to visit. As for the gift, it is always nice to get baby gifts, but the food alone is such a terrific gift, it really is enough. That just how I felt about it!

If you're invited in, then you could stay for a bit, otherwise just drop-off. You don't need to bring your husband. A gift is optional.

Don't forget the kids, if they have other children then think of food they will eat. Because if they won't eat your cooking then you really didn't help out at all. Parents will be greatful for anything that takes care of the kids and is edible. I think that if someone is bringing over dinner they have the right to love and hold the baby for a few minutes. I wouldn't stay for more then 10 minutes, remember their dinner is now waiting to be eaten. J.

What an awesome thing for you to do :)

We are about to have our 3rd baby and I really hope some people bring us meals, it's such a lifesaver.
If you're not a chef, and money isn't a huge issue, I have to say a couple of the yummiest meals people brought over with our 2nd baby were take out from restaurants. Someone brought us California Pizza Kitchen, including dessert. Wow!
And we loved the Chinese takeout. Someone else brought us a bunch of groceries from Trader Joes (like fruits, breads, etc.) which was awesome too!

Also, my mom baked us a bunch of mini muffins and breads that could be kept in the freezer. We just pulled a few out everyday, and since I was nursing and starving, I was so happy to be able to quickly devour a few muffins every morning.

If you friend is nursing, I wouldn't bring your husband, because chances are in the first few weeks that baby will be on your friend's breast, and that's a little awkward.

Not to be rude, just being honest here....Also, consider leaving your 3 year old at home. Personally, I would feel obligated to try to find some toys for a visiting 3 year old, and that's really the last thing a new mom needs is to be entertaining someone else's kids, and cleaning up toys afterwards. I'd much rather have a nice visit with my friend without her kids during my newborn phase.

Great suggestions below. I agree with the drop off/perhaps serve and short visit approach. Maybe do a quick dish wash or floor sweep while there.

When I've taken food for new parents, I often also take easy snack foods for day time or late night so Mom can eat and also get some sleep. Examples: already cubed cheese and small crackers, yogurts, boiled eggs, fruit salad in small containers, prepared sandwiches cut and half and bagged.

It's great that you are helping out. I'm sure your friend will appreciate it!

Great advice so far. One thing I always do is never sit down. Never. It makes it clear that I'm only dropping off dinner. If the new mom asks if I want to see the baby, then, of course I'll take a peek. I try to suggest that later on (when she's had more sleep) that we can get together. My girlfriend did this for me and it was such a blessing! When she did come about a week later, she brought a sandwich and refilled my large water glass (nursing moms always need that refilled). Can't tell you how great that sandwich was!

This is one of my favorite things to do, because I know how appreciated the effort is. I always just drop off the food, Ohhh and Ahhh over the little one, and get out. If there is some obvious chore that you can do pretty quickly, like wash the pile of dishes in the sink from yesterday, go ahead and do that, too! Drop off the gift, too, since you have it. The food might sit on the counter for an hour, or they might grab a fork and eat it over the sink the minute the door is closed. I drop off the food in disposable containers (not exactly "green" of me, but if there is one time in life you don't wanna clean up, it's when there is a newborn in the house) Ask about dietary concerns. I learned pretty early that my daughter could not handle life when I ate dairy, so I cut out all dairy products. Nothing too spicy either. Since you have a bunch of folks bringing dinner, you might want to call them and see if they are drowning in leftovers, and do they want to hold off for a couple of days (thereby extending the free meals for a little bit longer!). This is sooooo nice of you to do. I'm sure that the parents will be extremely grateful! Hopefully, your friend will be able to return the favor when it is your turn!

just wanted to say what you're doing is really sweet!

This is the nicest thing you can do for new parents!! Find out if the new mom is breastfeeding - I followed a pretty mild diet (no spices, caffine, dairy) when I was breastfeeding as it helped my little guy to spit up less.

If she is, this is a super simple meal: get a whole chicken (you can get 2 at Costco for $10, one for you, one for them), wash and remove the inner stuff, stuff the inside with basil, rosemary and thyme, rub olive oil on the outside, sprinkle w/salt + pepper. You can get a square tinfoil pan you can leave behind; bring it uncooked to their house with some small red potatoes (pre washed + cut into small pieces)to boil for 20 mins, a can of corn/greenbeans/whatever with a loaf of fresh bread and let them know dinner just needs to cook for an hour, so you can pop it in the oven and watch the baby while they shower/nap, or you can drop it off and go. Be flexible with them and it will be appreciated for years to come! I'll bet they do the same for you when its your turn soon :)

This is so nice of you! Congrats on your impending bundle of joy too!

I would bring the dinner and gift by in the late afternoon so they can put it in the fridge and pull it out at dinner time. I would stay just long enough to admire the baby and see if the mom needs any help with anything. I felt overwhelmed when I had my first and so many generous friends came by with dinners and lunch and then overstayed their welcome. I was just exhausted and didn't want to feel like I had to entertain or clean up after a "dinner party".

I think some kind of casserole, or pasta dish is easy to reheat and can last more than one night. Left overs are always great for new moms. I would also think about bringing a salad and dessert...maybe homemade banana bread, cookies or cupcakes.

It is so kind of you to bring them dinner. They will appreciate the gesture

hello. that's so great you're helping like that. our mom's club did the same thing for one of our moms who just had her 2nd baby. i made a large cassarole type dish that was easy to serve and they could have some left overs too. other people made big salads and some brought store bought food. it just depends on the new mom's preferences and any dietary requirements (vegetarian, allergies, etc). you don't need to make some big fancy dish, it's the thought that counts. as for visiting, i don't think you need to stay long, but a short visit to see the new baby and chit chat for a minute is nice. i would not stay for dinner though, just drop off the food. and i don't think you need to bring a gift, but if you have it already, then sure. you should also ask when is the best time to come over. just remember, she'll be tired and busy and have her hands full. but it's always nice to see friends and have some support.

for recipe ideas you could call the parents and ask if they are craving anything, the mom might be! But usually people just drop off the dinner because new moms are always having lots of company so just being able to have dinner alone would be really relaxing! Good Luck!

The only expectation for the dinner is to make a simple meal and drop it off. If you can't stay for a few minutes, no big deal .... I am sure the family will be thankful, but it will depend of how the day has progressed whether or not they want to be hosts. No need for extra gifts ... dinner is the perfect gift.

I think if i were you I would go alone. Drop dinner off and take a peek at the new little one. Church members brought us dinner and others were stopping by when we brought our new baby home. We were exhausted and wanted them to leave but didnt want to be rude. They will be so grateful for a meal that will be enough for them. How nice of you!

I would drop off the food, stay for a minute and leave. I know that after I had my son it was great when people would bring us food, especially the ones that called me ahead of time to see if there was anything that they could pick up for me. You are very kind to help out with this as it makes all the difference when you have that extra help and time to simply enjoy your precious little one.

CM
Having a long visit all depends on how close you are with her. I would just plan a short visit, and drop off a meal. You are bringing her dinner so she doesn't have to cook, right? So don't bring your husband. About 8 of my friends came over over to bring meals when I had my baby last October. They all just dropped off meals. Do a basic chicken and rice with a salad and desert (cookies or brownies) Make extra so they can eat for 2 days. If you want to give her something, just ask her if she needs anything, like diapers. You already gave them a gift, so you don't have to over do it. I am certain they will appreciate the meal!

We do this in my group of friends as well as in my MOMS group. If she is a close friend I think it is just fine to bring your gift when you drop off the food and visit for a few minutes. I would not stay for dinner and keep the visit brief. If you husband also knows them then bring him along!

One thing to add is that I received many versions of pasta with red sauce (baked ziti, lasagna, etc) and have heard the same from other moms.

I would ask them their meal preferences. However make enough for leftovers so they dont have to cook the next day. Meat loaf, spagetti, a whole baked chicken with potatoes, these are easy meals. If you want I can email on how to prepare them. Just let me know. Your friends are truely blessed by you. God Bless.

Just drop it off. You can bring the gift though. Go alone and keep the visit short.

Something ready to server or just heat and serve is appropriate. We've done the big dinners from El Pollo Loco before - because they can eat on it for a few days - dinner and lunch, etc.
Call and ask when you can stop by to drop it off.
Only go in if invited. And, only stay a few minutes.
No gift required.
Bless you for having a big heart!

In my MOMS Club, we do this for mommies who deliver babies too. It is fabulous! Having received meals myself, the best thing is to bring the meal (in dishes they can keep, ie: ziplok containers or aluminum pans) and simply drop off the meal, say a quick hello as you walk the food to the kitchen, ask how things are going, peek at the baby (if in the same room), explain what the dinner is (spaghetti w/etc.. etc.. ) and let them know if you need anything else you are available. Then leave!
The best thing is a quick in/ out, especially if it is dinertime, and the husband/kids are there.

Now, sometimes you might have a mommy who needs to talk. You will have to determine this yourself. We sometimes deliver early in the afternoon, before the kids/ hubby are home- so she might want to visit. You will have to gauge her attitude. But generally- just drop it off!

As for menus, always ask the family if there are any alleriges/food restrictions and how many will need to be fed, (sometimes they have mom or auntie helping out w/ baby). Also, find out any dislikes. The worst thing is to deliver fish to a family who hates it!

Stick w/ pasta dishes, casseroles or even take out is good. Try to make/bring something that is special, and something that they couldn't just pick up the phone and order themselves.

I always bring the main dish, side items and dessert. Last meal I brought was Spaghetti made w/ ground beef, and the sauce was made from Cream of mushroom soup and tomato soup (so it had a cream based vs marina base), with garlic bread, salad, and a crumb cake for dessert.

Hope this helps! You are doing a great service to this family!! :)

I've participated in many meal trains. Unless she requests that you hang out, just make something and drop it off. I usually do a veggie or turkey chili and then pack it with a bag of shredded cheese and sometimes I make some cornbread, topping off the meal with fresh strawberries or some nice treat. Another thing I've done is turkey wraps, fruit and cookies. Keep it simple, they will appreciate anything! Oh, and no on the gift. Just the meal. Make sure you put your name on any cookeware/tupperware or just use disposable. Oh, one more thing - ask ahead of time if they have any allergies or dislikes and/or keep in mind if she is nursing to go easy on onions,etc..
Congrats on your pregnancy!
M.

I suggest you call that day around lunchtime and ask what they would like. This worked well for us...some days we were happy to have company, others not so much. Either way, it's very nice of you and I'm sure will be very appreciated.

-M

By all means drop off a gift for the baby, and maybe the first time you're there take some time to admire the baby and talk a bit. But the purpose of everyone bringing meals to the family is to make the mom's life easier while she's recovering and the household is adjusting to life with a newborn. If you're hanging around with your hubby and they have to entertain you, that's not making their life easier. Drop off the meals, give them your best wishes, ooh and aah over the baby and clear outta there so they can sit and eat in their pajamas and not-real-cleaned-up kitchen. New mom doesn't want to feel she has to be beautifully dressed with clean house because somebody's coming over for the night. Let them relax. Meanwhile good for you for volunteering to help. It's a huge gift.

Hi CM,

I would highly recommend just dropping the meal off for them. They will probably be too tired to socialize.

When people did this after my husband had a brain injury, it was a big big help. Those who were not cooks, picked up food from a restaurant. So, that is an option for you :)

N.

How considerate of you to ask this question! I would suggest going completely in the spirit of service. I think most new moms are not up to socializing. We had a colicky baby and what some friends did was bring food and bounce the baby so that my husband, son and I could actually eat a meal together. We appreciated that so much- in fact, even more than any gifts we got. As far as foods go- I would suggest making a meal that doesn't involve milk, soy, onion or a lot of spices. Lots of babies have intolerance to these in breast milk. I can't tell you how much it killed me that my brother made us about 10 lb of lasagna that I couldn't eat once I found out our son was milk and soy protein intolerant :)!! A roasted chicken, some rice and a great big salad or spinach dish would be wonderful.
Congratulations to you as well!
S.

What I usually do is just bring my boy (not much choice) and just make it a quick visit. I had all the ingredients for a crock-pot meal. All I did was brought it over, put it in her crock-pot, visited for a bit, made sure that my meal was started ok and then we left. I know that mom is tired with that new one and just wants to rest. I definitely didn't want her to feel the need to entertain us. The purpose of the dinner is to help her relax. :) I know that she will appreciate it!! I would just do a quick stop to drop of dinner. Just my thoughts. :)

For me, with my first child, some friends did this.
In my situation, and since my friends "know" me... they simply brought over the dinner with disposable plates/utensils.... for easy clean up. They set out the food (buffet style) on the kitchen table, gave me a little "gift", then left.

With me being a new Mom, by no means, did my friends "expect" me to "entertain" them and stay for dinner. I was recovering from a c-section, tired, it was my first baby, I was tied down with breastfeeding, I had NO sleep, we were all pooped out, and I was in my pajamas and in no way was I wishing to get all dolled up (for company) much less spend the night entertaining and chatting and having a long "social."

So, I would just drop the things off, and politely let them know that you don't want to over-stay.... sometimes, I would feel "obligated" to tell my friends they could stay as long as they like... but it was just out of feeling obligated... I had NO energy to actually "want" to do that, nor to hang out and socialize. I just wanted to be cooped up, have solitude and just "be."

But each new Mom is different... and also, some Moms don't like having "company" because the baby is just newborn.....and they don't want colds/germs floating around their house or be brought in. At least I was that way. And, as you know, there is that Swine Flu thing going around, and other colds right now. So, be sensitive to that as well. The last thing I wanted, was to have my newborn be going from one person to the next, and be "exposed" to people yet. And, some cultures, have traditions about that, too.

I would not expect this to be a "social" visit... since she JUST had the baby. But, helping with meals is really great, and a thoughtful gesture.

BUT, simply ask... and then politely excuse yourself. ALSO, make sure you "know" what are proper drop-off-visiting times for bringing the meals. For me, my friends/relatives ALWAYS called first... to see if they could "pop-in". If we did not answer the phone, it was assumed that baby AND Mom were napping or resting... thus, no "visitors."

I'm "assuming" the new Mom, KNOWS about the meal sign-up??? And that people will be coming by with food/gifts/socializing? With any new Mom or any Mom with a baby... the less surprises the better, and certainly NO just popping-up on her doorstep un-announced without a phone call first.
I would get tired, even with answering the phone... and so my Hubby would do that for me. So I could rest.

Well, sorry to sound so "picky" but when I was a new Mom... I felt "pressured" to "entertain" anyone that asked to come over or telephoned... and it actually made me NOT want company. I was just too busy, too tired, too sore, no sleep, and recovering at my own pace. Then I just let the phone ring and let the phone machine pick up the calls.

But, it is a great idea to bring meals... just make sure you know what this Mom prefers, or ask one of her close friends.

For meals... just make your favorite dish... anything is appreciated, really. Unless they have allergies or something. Even just a pizza is great!

All the best,
Susan

Be prepared for the new parents to be really tired, and not up for socializing. (My Doula told me that any time you visit a new baby you should always bring food, and if you stay longer than an hour you should do laundry!) You can give the gift you already bought, but it's not necessary. The food will be appreciated more than just about anything else you could bring.

First off, as everyone else has said, go alone. One of the things that I didn't notice anyone mention, but if you know the family well enough, offer to take care of the baby for a bit. Of course, this depends on whether the baby is napping or crying. If napping, then encourage mom to take a rest too and offer to do a chore. If crying, offer to console/feed/diaper the baby as you can so mom can go for a walk or whatever she needs to do that's not a chore.

When I was in my first month at home, my mother-in-law and her cousin came to stay with us for a couple of weeks. As soon as they were up, they helped with the cooking, the cleaning and took the baby on so I could get in a shower, a nap, whatever I needed to do, sometimes just to check my email!

I haven't read the other responses, but I have brought several meals to people, and I also had lots of meals brought to me when I had my second baby. The best thing is to just drop the meal off, and stay for a few minutes to see the baby, then leave. At least for me, this is a stressful time, so I didn't want visitors to stay for too long (unless it was my mom to help!). You don't need to bring a gift if you alredy brought her one. Definitely don't stay for dinner unless they really want you to, but if it's just an aquaintance, just drop the meal off, stay a couple minutes, and leave. Also, try to bring a casserole in a disposable aluminum dish so they don't have to wash it.

Don't stick around and eat with them...drop it off and offer to pick the dish up later. They might be nice/feel obligated to offer, but kindly decline and tell them you understand that they need to rest/relax. The point of making them a meal is so the new mother/family can get rest and bond, etc. If you are not a chef, casseroles are good (make lasagna, which warms up nice...with a flute of french bread/let them cut the fresh loaf).

Good luck!

I had meals brought to me when I had my 2 babies. It was such a blessing! (and a lifesaver!) Those who brought meals dropped them off - I appreciated that, too, since I was not really up for company, especially at that time of day, and I am an introvert so meeting new people takes a lot out of me (most of the people who brought meals where not known to me). Since this is a friend of yours, you could ask her if she would like you to stay - she may love to have your company. The meal is gift enough, but again, since this is a friend, if you would like to give a gift, that it totally up to you. If she had a shower or is having a shower and you gave/are giving a gift for the shower, I would not bring another.

As for meal ideas, I am no chef either, but I think casseroles or something like lasagna is great, especially when there are leftovers for future dinners.

To add a suggestion, take everything in disposable containers, include paper plates, cups, utensils and napkins and a container of juice/milk etc... so there is ZERO cleanup involved (and no need to return anything). It is always an extra bonus when there are leftovers. As a mom who has been on both sides of this, just drop it off and go. It doesn't matter what you make (although I try to call the mom a couple of days before to make sure I am not the 3rd chicken enchilada in a row or if they have any food desires since they probably haven't been out of the house much). Trust me, anything is appreciated.

Friends did this for me and it was FANTASTIC. I cannot tell you what a gift it was not to have to think about cooking.

Some friends stayed; others just dropped off the food. My husband and I are very easy-going, so we enjoyed both scenarios. However, I would suggest asking your friend for her preference... and if she invites you to stay, let her know she can always uninvite you at the last minute if the baby is unexpectedly needy.

Any food will do, but protein / food that makes for good leftovers is always nice. Nothing wrong with a rotisserie chicken, a loaf of bread, and a simple green salad. Dessert is always welcome!

You're a nice friend to do this. I feel a special closeness to the friends who met my son this way, and who gave me husband and me one less thing to worry about during those crazy first few weeks.

lets see if i was you this is what i would do. i would bring something that could be reheated (and still taste good) incase they have to stop to tend to the baby. also i would offer to keep an eye on the baby so they can have a semi quiet dinner. gift wise i think thats up to you on weather to bring one or not. if your really worried about it maybe just get something small like a new baby picture frame or a single outfit thats not pricey. recipe wise i would do something simple like a frozen lasagna or even a small pot roast something that you dont have to really put a lot of thought or effort into doing but it will give them the needed calories and energy boost. hope this is helpfull!

How lovely! It is SUCH a help when friends bring dinner, those first few months are tough.
First off, it does not matter that you are no chef (I say that from experience, being a mom and a Chef:) even picking up food from a restaurant is appreciated. Although, a meal to eat that night and have leftovers is good, too. Spagetti and meatballs, lasagna, a casserole, turkey meatloaf, ect. Also, soup is good for new mothers. Lots of vegies, salad, healthy. No spicy food, go light on garlic, onions, peppers. Baby may not like the taste of breastmilk afterwards.
I suggest give them a call that afternoon and ask if they would like a SHORT visit, or if you can drop it off. It depends on their mood, sometimes it is so overwhelming you just can't handle visits, even from close friends. If you do stay for dinner, make it a short stay and DO THE DISHES. My friends always asked if there was something they could pick up from the store for me, or even do a load of laundry. Any help is good help.
No additional gift is needed.
It does 'Take a village..'!

Firstly, God bless you! What an amazing gift! As a mom who was blessed enough to receive gifts like this, my advice is: play it by ear. I remember feeling like nothing was certain those 1st few months. I could have been dying for company or dreading it at any given moment. Take the food and gift over and see how the situation feels. You may even just ask the new mom what she's currently in the mood for. But, I don't think she'll be able to tell you now how she'll be doing at any moment tomorrow. Again, bless you for your generosity!

Bring something quick and easy. No pasta...EVERYONE will bring that and the family will get tires of it. It's ok to give thema call on what they may want for that evening. As for visiting plan not to stay unless invited. Your supoort is just to drop off a hot meal for the night. If your a stay at home mom the best you can offer is a great breakfast or lunch meal. Don't feel that you have to give another gift for baby but think about what you may be able to give mom if you like to give a gift. I'm sure the family will be blessed by just the thought of your giving your heart and time to serve them. Have a fun!

I would just drop it off, say a quick hello depening on the experienece they are having with the new born. No gift necessary...at this point may seeom like just another thank you note although very much appreciated. I am sure you understand.

I would make a casserole & freeze it for them. Then, I would call to ask when is a good time to "drop it off". I would go alone, and ONLY go inside to visit, etc.. if they INVITE me! :-) Just think back to when you had your first born (tired/phone ringing off the hook/everybody wanting to come & see the baby, etc...) Give a little space, ya know? The baby will always be there & when they are ready for visitors, they will call ya! lol

You can find many easy recipes online for any type of casserole...

Drop it off and visit for a few minutes. If this is a very good friend you may offer to do a quick chore while you're there like tidy up the kitchen, load the dish washer or start some laundry. But don't linger, they are probably both very tired.
If you aren't really a cook you might consider the fresh, prepared meals at Costco. Maybe pick up an extra they can stick in the fridge for another night or lunch.

It sounds like SH has some great tips. We've done this several times and I would suggest NOT visiting. At most, drop off food and "set it up" for them. We also discovered that it's often best to alternate nights because there are often leftovers.
It's such a fabulous way to welcome the newborn and help the new mom and dad.

I was just on the receiving end of meals and here's my two cents . . . stay and visit if she wants, but only briefly; if baby is amiable, offer to hold him/her while mama takes a few minutes to herself (nap, shower, telephone call, staring off into space, etc.). Call and see when to bring the meal - I preferred it coming earlier in the day as we tend to eat dinner early. If it is a good friend, you may also want to call and see if she needs anything from the store. As for food, Costco has great prepared meals and most restaurants offer family meals for to-go; check with mama to see if any foods should be avoided. I wouldn't bring your DH - as she's a new mom, she may have questions to ask you of a personal nature and not want to open up with him there.