A helping hand

A helping hand, when you need one

Sometimes you need someone to answer one question. Sometimes you need a person who will listen. Here are a few places to begin.

About 3 minutes

Feeding is harder than you expected

Sore, confused about pumping, or wondering where to get breastfeeding help? Start with help for breastfeeding and pumping. If you are using formula, this clear preparation guide walks through mixing, storing and the extra care some babies need. These links are starting points; if feeding hurts or your baby is not feeding well, contact your care team.

A little worry keeps coming back

Write down what you have noticed and take it to your baby’s doctor. See examples of what children do as they grow, or find out how to ask about extra support. A checklist can help you explain a concern; it cannot tell you on its own whether something is wrong.

If your baby seems ill and you need help deciding what to do now, go straight to when to call.

You need someone to listen

Struggling deserves attention, even when you are still getting the jobs done. Talk with someone about how you are feeling through a free, confidential US service available day and night. Partners and family members can reach out, too.

For groups, local connections and different kinds of support, find a place to start here. Support groups and medical care offer different kinds of help; you can ask which one fits what you need.

You want to check a piece of gear

Look up a product recall using the exact name and model. For a car seat, find fitting help, registration and recall information here. You can also set up recall alerts; add the right item and enable notifications.

You would like more books, with less spending

Your local library is worth a look for books, story times and borrowing options. Check whether free monthly books are available where you live through Imagination Library. Its book-gifting program depends on a participating local partner.

Most care and safety links here are for US families. If you live elsewhere, your local health service and product-safety authority are the right places to check local advice.

From the Parent’s Lounge at Little Story Magic. A little help for the day you’re having.