Choosing what to get parents-to-be can be a daunting task. Baby showers are more of a communal experience. The focus is on expectant mothers, giving advice, and celebrating. But what about after the party? How can you make sure families feel supported and have everything they need to start off right? Here’s a short list of the essentials.
Car Seat
Car seats vary in price. Hospitals will not allow newborns to leave without one. When deciding on a car seat to buy, refer to the Car Seat Finder Tool: Find the Right Car Seat | NHTSA
Diapers
Babies need about 10 diapers per day. So, a diaper cake at the baby shower isn’t just decoration. You can be sure it will be put to good use.
Crib
Safe sleep experts recommend babies sleep alone in a crib without bedding, extra blankets, toys, or pillows. This practice significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Gift your mom-to-be a safer night’s sleep with a crib for baby. Parents, you may be able to gift yourself a crib through Find a Crib – Cribs for Kids
Layette
Start baby’s wardrobe off right with a layette, also known as a welcome-set. A layette is a collection of baby clothing and hygiene products that keep baby comfortable, fresh and clean.
Stroller
Babies on the go need a stroller. Parents can go stir-crazy after weeks in the home with children. Incentivize getting out of the house by making it easier with a baby stroller. Good Housekeeping lists their top picks from $92 to a whopping $1000. 11 Best Baby Strollers of 2023, Tested by Parents & Experts (goodhousekeeping.com)
Meal Trains
A temporary meal train in which friends and family drop off meals to the newborn’s family home is a great way to support new parents. The first six weeks postpartum are the toughest for moms; heard of ‘Baby Blues’? But, by then, parents are usually in their groove. So, keeping the meal train going that long may be enough. Or, parties may find the interactions so pleasant they decide to continue the meal train for the entire 4th Trimester. Meal trains aren’t hard to organize. There’s even a website MealTrain.com (official site) – Organize Meal Support in Minutes.
Chore Board
While you’re there, why not complete a chore? A chore board is a visual, yet subtle, prompt to help out. Raising children is a group effort; it takes a village. Show your support by completing and crossing off a chore on the chore board. This removes the awkwardness of asking for help for parents who need it but don’t know how to ask.
Parents, you may be able to gift yourself the above items through PARTNERS — LITTLE ESSENTIALS or find support and a “baby boutique” Apply Now — Room to Grow
Wisdom The Sweetness 