Baby showers has been in practice in Western culture since the 1900s. This event is the best time for family and friends to express their support to the mother-to-be.
In the early days of the practice, the most common gifts include umbrellas. This was also a symbol of the event. Baby showers then were usually held in the afternoon and guests used umbrellas as cover under the sun.
Today, although the essence of support is still found in the event, baby showers are now done differently. Now, the gifts are more practical in nature to help the mother and the baby.
Here are some examples of excellent baby shower gifts:
1. Clothing - Clothing is one of the most popular choice of many guests. These usually include sleepers, undershirts, socks, hats, diapers, and anything that the baby can wear. Choose clothing that is soft and comfortable for the baby to wear after coming home from the hospital.
2. Grooming Products - Another thing you can give is a grooming kit or a set of grooming products. These usually include towels, baby powder, wipes, baby safety pins, baby soap and other items that the mommy can use to groom the baby.
3. Feeding Paraphernalia - Most sets include bibs, tipper cups, feeding spoon, baby dishes, bottles, baby dishes, baby formula, breast pump, bottle brush and many others. When choosing feeding items, make sure that it comes from a trusted manufacturer and that it is tailored to suit the baby’s needs.
4. Nursery Items - If the baby has his or her own room or nursery, you may also want to give presents that the mother can decorate the baby’s room with. There are wide choices for this kind of gift. Choices can vary from stuffed animals, baby picture frames, dresser, changing table, baby furniture, nursery lamp, rocking horse, bouncy seats, and so many others.
5. Toys - Teething toys, musical toys and colorful items that stimulate baby learning also make great baby gifts.
6. Keepsake Box - A keepsake box is an excellent place to store baby items. Choose a box that is large enough to hold baby momentos, pictures, first socks, first stuff toy, etc. To make it personalized, add paint and color to the box and you can also etch the baby’s name on the box.
7. Baby Plant - This is a unique idea. Buy a small plant or a baby tree that you can plant outside the home of the parents-to-be. You can also tie baby items like a baby bottle, baby nail clippers and a pacifier on one of the young branches. Now, the parents will have something to watch the baby grow with. Indoor small plants are also excellent.
8. Puppy or Kitten - A puppy or a kitten can grow together with the baby. When the baby grows, he or she already has a constant companion and friend.