A UK health visitor has ignited a debate after sharing her 'controversial' advice for friends and family visiting new parents. Ruth Watts, a mother and health visitor based in England, urged visitors to refrain from asking to hold the baby, turning up empty-handed, or simply 'parking' themselves on the sofa.
In a video on Instagram, Watts advised bringing snacks and offering practical help, such as unloading the dishwasher or taking older children out. She emphasised that even grandparents are not entitled to hold the newborn, stating: 'You have no privilege. That child belongs to the mum and the other parent.'
Watts also cautioned against overstaying welcome and turning up unannounced, suggesting that only those who know the mother very well should visit in the first couple of weeks. Her advice has divided opinion, with some parents agreeing and others expressing a different view.
One parent commented: 'I didn't mind handing the baby off. I was happy that I was getting to show him off.' Another said: 'I loved sharing my babies and watching the love and bond develop.' However, others supported Watts, with one noting: 'My best friend called me the day after we came home, to let me know that she'd left an M&S shop on our doorstep.'
