Caring for a baby is a marathon without a finish line. Feeding. Changing. Getting the baby to sleep. Everything requires a ton of effort and while the smiles or giggles from these little bundles of joy makes up for it all, every parent needs all the help they can get – and that’s why choosing a thoughtful baby shower gift is so important.
We recommend choosing a thoughtful gift that will genuinely make the parent’s (and baby’s) life easier. So consider offering expecting parents one of the following baby shower gift ideas. They won’t be disappointed!
1. Sound Machine
Babies often struggle to stay asleep which is why one of the most effective methods is to use a sound machine. The Hatch Baby Rest generates several types of white noise such as ‘classic fan’. It’s easy to use and can be controlled remotely with any smartphone. The best part is that it glows different colors and so functions as a nightlight.
2. Soft Blanket
A soft blanket is another thoughtful present because it can be used in many situations. For instance, parents can use it to keep the baby warm while in the stroller. The Aden and Anais Dream Blanket is perfect for both boys and girls and is lightweight, soft, and breathable. It’s also fairly durable thanks to multiple layers of cotton muslin.
3. Teething Toys
Babies need constant entertainment and will put anything in their mouths which is why it’s essential to have plenty of baby-safe, ‘chewable’ toys laying around. It’s not just when they are teething that babies enjoy chewing on things, which is why any experienced parent will agree that they can never have enough of these around the house. One of the all-time classics is Sophie the giraffe. It’s easy for babies to grip the giraffe’s long neck and babies love to nibble on the legs and head.
4. Play Mat
Being active and learning how to use their hands is an important component of a baby’s development. Play mats provide a soft and safe place for the babies to lie down and explore the many textures, shapes, and sounds around them. The Skip Hop Silver Lining Cloud Baby Play Mat is perfect because it has many different mobiles for the baby to play with, such as a light-up star and sunshine mirror. It’s perfect for tummy time as well because it has a cushioned base.
5. Board Books and Keepsakes
Because reading is such an important part of baby’s verbal and mental development, most parents start reading to them when they are newborns. Babies who are read to as infants not only learn to recognize words earlier but also develop a love for books and learning before they even enter preschool.
Pop up board books such as Pop Up Peakaboo Under the Sea and Never Touch a Polar Bear are great baby shower gifts because they give parents something to read aloud while engaging the baby with incredibly crafted pop ups.
You can also give expecting parents a keepsake book so that they can record and save every step of their baby’s journey toward childhood.
6. Baby Changing Gear
Did you know that a newborn will typically go through ten diapers a day? Yikes! It’s a thankless job and so gifting a well-designed and durable changing gear is a very thoughtful gift. The Skip Hop Diaper Bag is a well designed and baby must have that parents will use often and take with them everywhere! You can also give them the Skip Hop Changing Pad which is also useful (think of those ten diaper changes per day!) because it is very comfortable and safe for the baby.
7. Baby Monitor
A baby monitor is an excellent gift since it allows parents to monitor their baby while it sleeps. The newest ones come with some useful features such as track room temp, monitor the baby’s breathing, and notify parents which the baby is crying. Baby monitors not only ensure the baby’s safe and healthy but also gives parents peace of mind.
8. Something for Mom
It’s easy for a new mom to lose herself in the excitement of raising a new baby. This can be a wonderful experience, but sometimes self-care is also necessary. If a new mother doesn’t take time to replenish her mental and physical health, she will not only be neglect her own well being but also struggle taking care of the child. As such, give the new mom a nice gift that she can use for herself (in addition to a baby-related gift). Luxury bath oils like Aromatherapy Associates Bath & Shower Oil Collection and bath bombs such as Inteye Organic Bath Bombs (set of 24) are always a good choice because they let moms have a moment to themselves to relax. Herbal teas such as La Tisaniere’s Bed Time Herbal Tea are also a good choice for moms.
More Awesome Baby Shower Gift Ideas
For more baby shower gift ideas browse the 20 best baby shower gift ideas shortlist. There is something for every budget and we’ve only included top quality products from the best brands.