Gifts for New Dads or New Fathers
Many friends of new parents give the happy family supplies for their bundle of joy. If your buddy is the proud dad, consider giving a gift just for him. Sometimes, with all the excitement of a new baby, fathers get lost in the shuffle. Whatever your budget, gifts for the new dad can be technical gadgets or even a sentimental movie for father and child.
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Sentimental Gifts
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New fathers are emotionally vulnerable, especially if they have recently had their first child. Take advantage of this and give the new dad something sentimental to hang onto as his baby grows up. Take a photo of Dad and baby together and frame it for him. Consider giving him a toy or book that was special to him as a child. A great idea for the sports fan is a little onesie of the baseball, football, basketball or hockey team the new dad roots for. Every time your buddy looks at Junior wearing it, he'll think of you.
Useful Gifts
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Dads don't mind hauling diapers, bottles and toys for their precious baby, but giving him a useful diaper bag might make the task a little easier. Many baby retailers stock leather or nylon messenger bags to use as a "Daddy diaper bag" -- perfect for manly toting of all things baby. Hands-free capability for Dad's cell phone is equally useful. Give him a Bluetooth attachment for his smartphone so he can call you while he's carrying Junior to and from the car.
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Keepsakes
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Keepsake gifts are a very budget-friendly option, especially if many of your group of friends are now in the family way. Visit your local craft store and buy a wooden box. Stain or decorate the box to suit the new addition: pink and girlie or blue and sporty. Put a variety of empty picture frames inside that the family can use as the baby grows. If you're not much of a crafter, give Dad a special baby book for marking milestones in the baby's life, like birthdays and holidays, and for storing photos.
Media
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Hands-free phones aren't the only gadget the new father could use. Get him a digital camera to capture all the new memories with his family. Digital cameras are available for a range of budgets, so if you've got a lot to spend, opt for one that takes videos as well as photos. If you're on a tighter budget, get a pocket-size camera in a funky color that he can stow away and take on the go. Videos and DVDs also make great gifts for media-minded dads. Disney movies are always a hit; titles like "Finding Nemo" or "Aladdin" are great for either a boy or a girl.
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References
Resources
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