How to Buy a Baby Shower Gift

Baby shower gifts can be simple or elegant, traditional or creative and personal. Select with creativity and care - the possibilities are endless.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby Clothes
• Boy's Dress Clothes
• Layette Gift Sets
• Nightgowns
• Baby Blankets
• Baby Brush/comb Sets
• Baby's First Bath
• Silver Rattles
• Strollers
• Silver Picture Frames
• Charms
• Silver Baby Mugs
• Soothing CD
• Credit Cards And Loans
• Gift Certificates
• Savings Bonds
• Spa Gift Certificates
• Baby Toys

1. Check the registry. These days, many moms-to-be register for baby items they know they will need.

2. Use your experience as a parent (or ask someone you know who has kids): What could you not live without during the first year?

3. Investigate the needs of the new parents. Do they need a front carrier, a baby backpack or a stylish diaper bag?

4. Go in with a group to purchase baby furniture or strollers. Send these the minute you know a baby is expected, or tell the parents you plan to buy them.

5. Monogram a silver baby mug, baby silverware or a silver picture frame.

6. Buy child-sized jewelry: a nametag bracelet or bangle; a heart necklace for a girl; or an ID bracelet, tie bar or cufflinks for a boy.

7. Choose clothes in size 3 months or larger. A baby usually has a first outfit and will quickly outgrow newborn sizes. Include gift receipts if possible.

8. Start the baby's library with a classic hardbound book. Put a nameplate in the front cover for a personal touch.

9. Evaluate your spending limits. If you don't want to spend more than $50, opt for an outfit, a special blanket or a baby grooming kit, complete with clippers, diaper ointments and shampoo.

10. Stay away from equipment that's on sale, unless you know the parents want a particular item. There might be a reason it is on sale.

11. Give the baby a savings bond as a big gesture.

Tips & Warnings

• When the sex of the baby is unknown, opt for gender-neutral colors such as yellow, white and green.
• Crib quilts are personal, so ask if there is a planned pattern, or make one for a unique gift.
• Forgo the thoughtful, yet unnecessary gift for Mom. Although it's a nice gesture, she will probably be embarrassed by the attention - after all, the shower is for the baby.

[trueprosperity]

on 4/14/2008 Lots of onesies different sizes from newborn to 3T because they grow so fast.

on 11/22/2005 Diapers are a necessity that parents will appreciate from the time their little bundle comes home from the hospital til the child is ready to begin potty training. Ask guests to bring a bag of diapers (newborn and older because babies grow rapidly). The parents will be appreciate this gesture because diapers can get expensive and they are used in bulk
Warning: be aware of mom's allergies that may be evident with baby. Ask mom whether To be on the safe side, buy hypoallergenic, alcohol, perfume & dye free diapers and wipes.
Use your experience as a parent or ask someone you know who has kids

on 11/22/2005 Buy a diaper bag or one of the baby baths and fill it with shampoos, washcloths, lotions, socks (a big need), onesies, outlet covers, sleepers (six months and up work best), etc. The mom-to-be will appreciate all the little things.

on 11/22/2005 I hated all my daughter's oufits with the snaps in the back. Diaper changes are too hectic in non-realistic style sleepers! Simple ones with crotch snaps made of 100% cotton are best. I also loved my gift basket of wipes, clippers, soaps, etc.

on 11/22/2005 A lot of people will buy the immediate needs for the unborn child. Why not get a matching dish set, some hard cover books, or educational toys? Mom will be grateful to have something for the future.