Gift Idea for Everyone

A baby shower is a celebration of new life and new beginnings. It is also an opportunity for those closest to the expectant parents to show their love and support by relieving some of the financial stress associated with preparing and buying for a new baby. The challenge? Finding that perfect gift.

The stores are overflowing with gadgets and gizmos to choose from. If you’re a parent, think about those items that came in most handy or that you found useful with your own baby. If you aren’t sure what to give, investigate before you begin shopping or ask around. Other parents are often a great source of referrals! If you’re still searching, fill in the gaps with one of these items:

What to Expect the First Year: For first-time parents, this is the how-to guide of all how-to guides and is a baby shower must. For each of the baby’s first twelve months, there is informative information as to the progress that the baby may be making at this stage and a guide for caring for and interacting with a newborn. New parents are sure to have a million questions. Is our baby getting enough to eat? Do we need to bring her to the doctor? Should she be sucking her thumb? This book has the answer to it all. Buy a copy online or at your local bookstore. Price: $15.95

Boxed Convenience Foods: When the house is in disarray at six in the evening and the baby’s having a fussy moment or two (or three), the last thing a new mom or dad feels like doing is spending two hours in the kitchen preparing a meal. That’s why a baby hamper or toy box filled with packaged, ready-to-eat convenience foods makes such a wonderful gift. You can pick these up at your local supermarket or wholesale club. To round out your gift, throw in a couple of movie rental coupons. Price: Varies, but includes the cost of the hamper or box, food and coupons

Baby Swing: New moms and dads will appreciate gifts for their babies that give them a little free time - or at least a free hand. A swing is also a wonderful way to soothe a crying baby. The rocking motion helps to calm them and quickly put them to sleep. Look for one that has a wide base and will not tip over. It should also have a safety belt feature. Graco and Fisher Price carry several of the top sellers. Price: $40 to $150

Breastfeeding Gift Basket: If the mom-to-be is planning to breastfeed her baby, then a basket filled with all the essentials would come in handy. You can buy one online or put one together yourself. Pick up a large basket at your local craft store and fill it with supplies such as a pump, disposable breast pads, gel pads for comfort, a good breastfeeding book or two, healthy snacks, burp cloths, water bottle to keep mom hydrated, Lansinoh cream, storage bags and containers. Price: Varies on contents