New parenthood support in Netherlands 🇳🇱

“If you are just starting out with a new baby and the colic, I want to tell you it does pass. The crying every evening feels like it will never end but it does. Ask for help even if you have no family close by. I found one neighbour who took the baby for an hour so I could sleep. That hour saved me. Other mums are out there going through the same thing even when it feels like nobody is.”

“To anyone just starting out: it's bloody hard. The crying, the weighing, the feeling like you've vanished. I won't say it's easy, but it does change. You'll find bits of yourself again, just slower than you'd like. Accept help when it's offered, even if it's just someone holding the baby while you shower. And if you're struggling, tell someone. I wish I had sooner.”

“I remember being right in the middle of it, thinking there was no end. The broken sleep, feeling like a stranger to yourself. I've been there. What helped me was tiny things: a short walk with the pram, a hot drink while the baby slept (even if I didn't). And I asked for help, which wasn't easy. You're not on your own with this. Things do improve, just slowly. Try to be kind to yourself.”

“If you've just found this place, I was in the same place nearly four years ago. For me it was my partner and I fighting over nothing. I've started painting again.”