Sentimental Gifts for New Dads
When newborns arrive, most gifts either center around the baby itself, or the new mom's many activities in relation to the new child. The father's time with his new son or daughter is not only important for pragmatic reasons, but also for the necessity of bonding with his baby. Though gifts can be practical, sentimental items for Dad will also be well received.
Other People Are Reading
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Baby Books
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Since the baby will naturally be around his mother for a greater amount of time than his father (most dads still have to go out to work), nursery books with simple poems and short stories are valuable for enabling Dad to simply spend time reading to his new child. Though the child is much too young to understand any words, she will grow to get used to Dad's voice, which will be part of the bonding process.
Baby Carrier
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Carriers are designed to strap to the parent's body, so that the baby can be carried with both arms free. The warmth of Mom's or Dad's body usually helps the baby sleep, and when Dad wears the carrier, it promotes special bonding time, as well as giving Mom a much needed break. Be sure to choose neutral colors that both parents can wear.
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Photo Frame
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A simple photo frame with the first photo of Dad and new baby will be a welcome item for dad to take to work. Though he is away from the home environment, a well-placed photo on his desk will remind him of his new fatherly role, as well as his expanding family back home.
Feeding Blanket
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After the first few weeks, moms and dads choose to alternate nightly feedings so that both parents can get as much sleep as possible. Though Mom may be breastfeeding, Dad will have to rely on a feeding bottle. A feeding blanket for Dad to keep the baby warm during feeding is a pragmatic gift, but may also become a sentimental item for Dad to treasure long after the baby's bottle-feeding days are over.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
