Image from www.debretts.comJust because babies are too young to know anything about right and wrong- let alone etiquette, it doesn’t mean that adults are exempt from minding their manners when in the presence of one. If you’ve recently had an infant addition to your family, or maybe just to a good friend, keep these things in mind:
- Three Day Rule: New mothers need their rest and they also need time to bond with their baby. It’s best not to call or request a visit (unless told you could) until at least three days have passed. Immediate family is the exception to the rule, though even then they shouldn’t insist on staying the night.
- Do the Work: One of the most common poor etiquette pitfalls is to show up at the newborns home and watch the new mom have to work while everyone holds her child. Guests should never expect meals or to be served, and should instead offer to help in any way possible.
- Use Technology: New parents should utilize their voicemail and websites to publicly announce when visitors are welcome, which should help prevent unannounced guests.
- Adult Thank-You’s: New parents should send notes of thanks for gifts from themselves, not on behalf of the child. They should also send out birth announcements within three months to notify friends and family.
- Listen to Mom: Take cues from the new mother. If she’s dressed in pajamas, tells you she has to feed the newborn, or let’s you know her pediatrician doesn’t want the baby passed around much, listen. It might be that you want to return to visit at another time.
Making Etiquette Easy,
Susan K. Medina
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