All birthers + primary caregivers will have different needs and wants in the days, weeks and months post-birth that will evolve as they change, their bodies change, their routine changes and of course baby changes too. However, there are some things that can be important to do/remember that can help ease some of the toughness of so much change.

• Re-fill their bottle/cup and plate with water and food every time they feed and whenever you leave the house. Be sure that your partner lets you know what snacks they like/are easy to eat with one hand so that you can leave them with the nutritional support they need, especially if breastfeeding.
• Safeguard their space in the days/weeks post-birth as a gatekeeper to your home. Be sure that visitors only come when they are invited and/or welcome to the home, which may mean fielding phone calls/text messages/drop-in visitors with a polite, "We'll let you know when we're ready for you to meet our baby."
• Remind them how great of a job they're doing, how proud of them you are, how amazing you think what they're capable of is, and how much you love them for it all (in moments when they are crying, resting, laughing, etc.)
• Keep a close eye on them for signs that the baby blues might be turning into something more serious; you are the first line of defence and you know them best. Here is the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression:

The signs are often subtle because they're often kept deeply covered and hidden away. New parents can be very good at burying their feelings under to-do lists so keep your eyes peeled and the communication lines open. Regardless of how their birth went, they might want to debrief with a professional and there are some great postpartum professionals in Toronto. You can also encourage them to meet with new parent groups -- sometimes just being around other new parents and figuring out what's "normal" can help them figure out how much support they truly need.
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I like:
Perinatal Wellbeing Ontario (Peer Support + Individual Counselling *sliding scale! They're the best!!! Partners also welcome!!)
Olivia Scobie
Mama Care Health Services
Healing in Colour (BIPOC therapists)

*There are some great supports in the community for those who identify as 'dads' such as this one through Mt Sinai for example