A baby shower can provide expecting parents with many of the supplies they need before their baby is born, but there’s still a lot they need to do. Setting up the nursery, washing and folding baby clothes and cooking meals that can be reheated are just some of the tasks on a parent-to-be’s list. That’s where the nesting party comes in.
If you’re about to have a baby, here’s how to have a nesting party to get some extra help from family and friends before your due date.
What is nesting?
Nesting refers to the period before childbirth when couples prepare the nursery space and amenities for their new baby. While some may prefer to keep the chores to themselves, juggling these tasks with work and other responsibilities can be difficult.
A nesting party allows your loved ones to step in and provide assistance. The couple can initiate the event, or their family and friends can volunteer their help. Either way, you and your partner are still in charge of stating what you need from your support system and how they can get the job done.
Best nesting party ideas
Some people have a list of tasks ready, while others only have an objective or two. Consider these nesting party ideas.
1. Paint the nursery
It can be hard to get the nursery painted and decorated. After all, pregnant people must steer clear of paint to minimize risk. If they wish to participate, they must avoid latex paints with solvents, at the very least. Invite friends and family keen on adding drawings and other vibrant doodles to the walls.
2. Pack the hospital bag
The U.S. has seen an increase in home births for the last two decades, with some intended while others were not. It’s still best to have an emergency hospital bag even if you have a home birth plan in case medical assistance is necessary. Add comfortable underwear and clothes that don’t restrict movement. Toiletries, snacks and medications are also ideal. Chickpeas are a great source of fiber and protein after giving birth, so consider packing some crunchy chickpeas in your hospital bag.
3. Assemble baby gear
Some baby gear — like strollers and cribs — can be hard to set up. Make it more fun by letting your friends compete against one another to see who can assemble their product faster. You can also have people partner up and collaborate. Include other fixtures like car seats and baby toys.
4. Create a cozy nursery
A nesting party is the perfect time to put the finishing touches on your nursery. You’re about to have some late nights in there, so make sure to make the space comfortable for both you and baby. Get your friends and family involved by having them each bring their favorite kids book to add to your shelf so you have endless options for bedtime stories. Studies have shown that reading to children of all ages helps them fall asleep more easily, so having a full library in your nursery will be a lifesaver when you get home from the hospital.
5. Put a baby playlist together
Creating a playlist can be a fun activity that can ease your nerves as you get closer to your due date. Some expecting moms like to play music in the delivery room, so you can enlist your friends to help pick out songs that will soothe you and welcome your baby into the world.
6. Anticipate breastfeeding needs
Breastfeeding your baby is an experience that benefits from preparation. Make sure you clean the breast pump parts and assemble the machine. Create a comfortable breastfeeding station, especially if you plan to pump while away from your baby. In your nursery, set up a comfy chair to prepare for breastfeeding at home.
7. Prepare the changing station
You and your loved ones can also create a changing station together. Dirty diapers can irritate and infect your baby if worn for too long, so you need to be alert and ready to change out soiled ones. Have an arsenal of wipes, baby powder and a plastic diaper bucket. A cushioned mat or towel can also help your baby lie down safely.
8. Clean and organize items
Clean the home and belongings ahead of your baby’s arrival to ensure they’re in a safe environment. Be wary of cleaning solutions with toxic ingredients, especially ones that would come in direct contact with your baby. Have your loved ones help fold and organize baby clothes into a closet after cleaning the nursery with natural ingredients.
9. Baby proof the furniture
Another way to prepare the nest is to have all the furniture baby-proofed. You can have your loved ones cover all the sharp furniture edges and corners with safety padding. Use child-proof locks on cupboards and drawers to keep wandering hands at bay. If there’s extra time, add baby safety gates at the stairs or between rooms.
10. Meal plan and prep
Some expecting parents tend to be so preoccupied with their little ones that they forget their own health. Let your loved ones meal plan and prep for you as a nesting party idea. Chicken or turkey can last a year when packaged properly in the freezer. Make sure you use a layer of aluminum foil or freezer paper for longer-term storage. A savory chicken noodle soup is also a great option for replenishing your nutrients — plus, it perfectly aligns with the cozy vibes of your nesting period.
Extra nesting party planning tips
A nesting party is still a relatively new concept, and many expecting couples may be unsure what they should include or omit from the list. Keep these tips in mind while planning.
- Differentiate the nesting party from a baby shower: A nesting party is a simple get-together that looks forward to your baby’s arrival. While a baby shower is the designated day for gift-giving, a nesting party focuses more on acts of service, such as cleaning or meal prepping.
- Decide who’s on the guest list: A nesting party is typically quite intimate — especially when you have more personal tasks — so choose who you want to include in your inner circle. You can also have people volunteer and plan the nesting party for you.
- Delegate responsibilities wisely: Play to your guest’s strength to make the occasion more enjoyable. Mom friends will have the most insight on how to make your breastfeeding or changing station functional, while child-free friends or relatives may be better at chores around the house.
- Consider the time and date: As with any other celebration, you want to work out the logistics. Some people have a full-blown nesting weekend, while others only gather for a few hours. See what works for you and your circle.
- Stay in the moment: While the nesting party is all about preparing for the next stage after pregnancy, it’s important to have fun with your loved ones. They all gathered to support you, so practice being present and grateful.
Ready the nest
As a parent, you want to prepare the nursery and plan ahead before you bring your baby home. A nesting party lets you sort everything out while cherishing these moments with friends and family. Plan out the session and enjoy
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