A friend has just become a parent and is terrified of losing touch with all their friends. What would you tell them?

B Natural answer

I'd tell them that this fear is really common, and it doesn't mean the friendship is doomed. In the first year, everything feels messy, so the best thing is to lower the bar for what staying connected looks like. They don't need long hangouts or perfect replies. A short message, a photo, or even a quick emoji can still count. I would also suggest sending tiny updates instead of waiting until life feels calm again, because life with a baby may never feel calm in the same way. And if some friends don't respond much, I would say not to take it personally. People get busy, get distracted, and sometimes need give it time before they know how to show up. Real friendships usually survive a quieter season if both sides care.

Key phrases in this answer

• lower the bar — expect less or make the standard easier to meet“You may need to lower the bar for reply speed right now.”
• tiny updates — very short messages about what is happening“I send tiny updates when I don't have time for a long chat.”
• give it time — wait before judging or worrying“The friendship may feel different now, so give it time.”
• keep in touch — stay connected and communicate regularly“We should keep in touch even if we're both busy.”
• small rituals — simple repeated habits that create connection“We have small rituals like Sunday breakfast and a weekly call.”
• new-parent season — the early period after someone becomes a parent“In my new-parent season, I was tired all the time.”