Your loved one has just delivered a baby! Now, you can’t take your eyes off the cute newborn pictures, and you’re excited to see the new bundle of joy in real life. But wait, when is an appropriate to visit? Is it even safe with COVID fears still lingering in Hong Kong? Are there specific post-pandemic and cultural etiquettes in Hong Kong?
If you have doubts, follow these tips for a safe, considerate, and sweet visit to the new parents and their little one. Trust me, the new parents will appreciate your courtesy.
1. Schedule ahead
In Hong Kong, the Chinese tradition of 1-month postpartum confinement (坐月) is commonly observed by mothers. The last thing new parents want is to entertain guests in this month of recovery, so it’s best to wait until after a month, unless invited by the parents. Schedule your visit at a convenient time for them, and if visiting in a group, let them know the number of people to expect.
2. Kids may not be welcome
Hong Kong homes are known to be small. Having kids running around might bring additional stress and germ exposure to the new parents. So if you plan to bring your kid(s) along, do so only with the hosts’ permission.
3. Strict hygiene and health protocol
Despite the relaxed social distancing measures, it is customary to conduct a rapid test before attending any gatherings with high risk groups. To ease the new parents’ worries, report the result of your COVID self-test prior to your visit. Make sure you are free from flu or covid symptoms, such as cough, runny nose and diarrhoea. In the unfortunate event that you become a close contact of COVID patients, please postpone your visit for the sake of your loved one’s well-being.
When you arrive at the home, remember to wash your hands, and sanitise! These have become the standard protocols for medical appointments, public transport, and of course- visiting newborns. Be mindful that newborns have very fragile immune systems. Unlike adults, their exposure to any germs could pose serious health risks. Be extra vigilant with hygiene, as you don’t want to be the one harming a precious new life.
4. Avoid odour
Newborns are sensitive to strong scents such as cigarette smoke and strong perfume. These strong odours may irritate the baby’s delicate senses, making them fussy and distressed. To ensure a restful sleep for the baby, make sure you show up without any pungent odours lingering on your clothing. If you are exposed to cigarette smoke (both first-hand and second-hand), be sure to shower and change to fresh clothes before the grand meet-and-greet. This would prevent transmission of third-hand smoke to the delicate treasure.
5. Bring thoughtful gifts
In Chinese culture, it is practically rude to visit a neighbour empty-handed, not to mention the precious angel of your beloved. While the new baby will likely get most of the gifts, It’s thoughtful to bring something for the new parents and elder siblings. After all, they are often forgotten with the new baby being the centre of attention.
If you can’t manage to find any useful presents, red packets are always appreciated as a blessing and practical gift.
6. Don’t take photos and post on social media without permission
Some parents are especially protective of their kids’ images, and for good reasons! They also might have specific ideas of how they want to share the news with the world. So please don’t take and post pictures without the parents’ consent.
7. Resist kissing
We know- sleepy eyes and chubby cheeks are irresistible. You would be so tempted to snuggle the little one and get a sniff of the heavenly baby smell! However, kissing infants is simply a big no, as it is known to spread germs.
8. Be helpful
The arrival of a new baby is overwhelming for new parents, so they could certainly use some help. To be a nice guest, offer to purchase any groceries, food, or baby items they might need. You can also keep the elder siblings entertained while the parents attend to the newborn. Depending on your relationship with the parents, you will know what’s appropriate.
9. No personal questions or unsolicited advice
Everyone has a unique pregnancy and delivery experience. There are some touchy subjects that may elicit discomfort on new parents, regardless of how close they are with you. Parents may not be ready to answer sensitive questions, or to hear advice from any self-proclaimed parenting gurus, so be cautious to initiate conversations about their childbirth methods, stake on breastfeeding and parenting styles.
10. Leave
While it is wonderful to reconnect with your loved one, overstaying your visit could burden your hosts, who have endless baby tasks to attend to. It is best to leave the new parents to bond with their baby and recharge their energy. The new parents may ask you to stay out of respect, so read the room and get going when time is up! Your understanding would mean the world to them – they would surely be even more eager to welcome you the next time.
Angela Li
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Angela is a content writer captivated by the dynamics of family life and the rich cultures around the world. Although travel has taken her to various corners of the globe, she’s always admired her heritage and its timeless wisdom. Through her writing, Angela is now adding her voice to the digital world to promote well-being, sustainable living, and cultural appreciation.
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