Parenting News: New Mums Prefer Housework Help Than Gifts
Having a child is incredibly stressful and adds plenty of new chores to an already long list so it’s almost no surprise that what mums would like most is a cleaner.
Instead of being showered with gifts, 51 per cent of mums said they would rather have someone help around the house so that they can spend more time with their new born.
P&G, to launch its Everyday Effect campaign, also found that women would say the first six weeks with their new child is harder than passing a driving test, buying or moving house, changing jobs, sitting A-levels and arranging a wedding.
Two thirds of new mums also said that the amount of washing they had to do since their new arrival had doubled.
Kirstie Allsopp, ambassador for P&G’s the Everyday Effect campaign, said, “This really strikes a chord with me.
“Tidiness is my thing, and while others may want a food parcel delivered to them, for me it was great if anyone unloaded the dishwasher, got the Flash out, or put a load of washing on as it meant I could spend more time cuddled up on the sofa with my new baby.
“They may seem like small things but they really do make a big difference. That’s why P&G is celebrating the power of the Everyday Effect.”
Dads admitted that they also feel the pressure with 62 per cent saying they hadn’t realised how stressful a new born could be, but they have put that aside to step in and help mum.
Mothers appreciated the help with 43 per cent saying that their partners were their main source of support after giving birth.
Linda Papadopoulos, psychologist and life coach, said, “Having a baby is one of the biggest life changes you can go through, it means an adjustment in the way you think and behave.
“During major life events when life can sometimes seem chaotic it is the little things that centre us, the everyday acts that ensure we feel on top of everything.
“Friends and family should ask what little thing would really help and it’s really important for new parents to accept these offers of help. Those little acts will help bring calm amongst what can often feel like a storm.”
How much support did you have after giving birth? Let us know by commenting below or tweeting us @FemaleFirst_UK
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