During prelabour, and the early phase of 1st stage, most women will not need any physical support, or direction. Often you are at home during this time (unless your caregiver has advised you otherwise). Most women are content to do their own thing. This could include doing small tasks, or wandering around the quiet house in the early hours of the morning. If you are on your own, you may want to contact your partner, or support people, letting them know that things may be happening (but there is no need to come home yet).
If you have a small child, it is usually best for someone to take them out (or occupy them) at this time, if they are not asleep. It can be hard to establish into stronger labour with a demanding toddler diverting your attention. (This is generally why mothers having a subsequent labour will not establish contractions until after their little one goes to bed!) You may wish to read more in
sibling preparation.
Having a heat pack, or hot water bottle, available to use at home is a good idea. You might like to think about your furniture, and what could be a comfortable height for you to lean on. Perhaps your bed, or sofa, is the right height to be able to lean on while you are kneeling on the floor (with cushions, or a mat, under you knees).
During the active phase of 1st stage, the intensity of labour increases, with many women starting to need physical and emotional support. Most women will be at their birthplace by now. This could be to help them change positions, have someone massage their lower back (or shoulders), or hear reassurances such as, "I love you, you're doing well." The woman may become less aware of other discomforts (that often pale into insignificance in relation to her contractions).