Choosing the Perfect Baby Gift
When buying a baby gift, impractically cute often wins out over thoughtfully useful. Perhaps it is the sight of teeny dresses and diminutive motorcycle booties that makes gift-givers lose perspective. Whatever the reason, here’s a list of Do’s and Don’ts for buying a great baby gift.
Don’t Assume that Baby Clothes are a “Safe” Choice
Personal tastes vary widely among parents. Perhaps you dig that vibrant jumper but mom is more of a pastel kind of gal when it comes to dressing her baby. Also, remember that most babies spend their first 6 months in the simplest clothes – onesies. So, while that frilly little dress is fun to buy, it will likely go unworn. Lastly, don’t forget that babies come in a variety of sizes and grow quickly in their first year. It’s always frustrating for a parent to pack away a gift their baby never even got the chance to wear.
Don’t Fall Into The Baby Blanket Trap
New parents are often inundated with an endless supply of baby blankets. They will find, however, that they only need two – one lightweight blanket and one heavier one. All those other extra blankets get stored in a closet, never to be seen again. The one exception to The Blanket Trap is the blanket you make yourself – a gift made with love is always a good choice.
Don’t Forget about Safety
Thousands of children’s toys and products are recalled every year because they are unsafe. When selecting a gift, choose quality over quantity and be aware of the age recommendations listed on the packaging.
Don’t Forget About the Big Brother or Sister
A small gift for the new big brother or sister is always appreciated. When you visit, take the time to talk to the older child as well. Try to ask about things other than the new baby and their new role. It can be difficult for a child to suddenly have their world revolve around this new (albeit cute) little person. Even the most enthusiastic new big brother or sister will find it reassuring to have their individuality recognized through thoughtful questions about their school, friends and interests.
Now For Some Definite Do’s!
Do Give Gifts that Encourage a Baby’s Development – Toys and Books
A well-made toy is a gift that will bring joy and learning each time a baby plays with it. The best toys are open-ended ones which the baby can use well beyond the first year, unlike those tiny booties which are quickly discarded once they are outgrown. Likewise, books are an essential resource for any nursery. A child can never have too many books. Select quality toys made from natural materials whenever possible – wood, rubber and cotton rather than plastic. Choose sturdy board books and cloth books which will hold up to lots of abuse from a curious infant.
Do Give Diapers
Diapers may no be the glamorous choice but, to a new parent, they make for a thrilling gift. Diapers are a big and unavoidable expense for new parents. Be a hero and foot the bill for a 3, 6 or 9 month supply of diapers. Or, you can truly save the day by supplying them with a whole year’s worth! By giving a Diaper Subscription that delivers the diapers straight to their door, you’ll also save them the time and hassle of running to the drugstore every time they run out of diapers.
Do Remember the New Dad
Dad is easily forgotten in the whirlwind that leads up to the birth of a baby, yet today’s fathers are more involved in child-rearing than ever before. Recognize and celebrate the new role Dad is about to assume. Give him a diaper bag that is practical and masculine so that he doesn’t have to resort to using mom’s (often frilly) bag. Fill it with a parenting guide that speaks to him and gear him up with toys and books that encourage him to interact with his baby through play.
Do Get Technological
There are a lot of firsts to capture in a baby’s first year. Help mom and dad preserve all of those special memories with a still or video camera. Pick one that is compact and easy to use so that they can capture all of the everyday magic that makes life with a baby so special.
Finally, Do Give Your Time and Support
New babies are exhilarating and exhausting! Make them a dinner which they can simply pop in the oven or keep in the freezer for a night to come. Offer to bring their older child to the park for some fresh air so that mom and dad can take a nap. Give them your support by being considerate and respectful of their rules and parenting choices. Make sure to wash your hands before touching the baby and keep sick children at home when you visit. Share in their joy, listen to their fears and offer to take some photos of the new family together. Sometimes a helping hand and an attentive ear are the best gifts of all!
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