Buying gifts for a first-time mom is easy . . . she needs everything! Plus, she has, more than likely, completed a gift registry, so friends and family know exactly what to buy. But with each subsequent birth, gift giving gets more and more difficult, especially if the babies are all the same gender. You want to celebrate each new bundle of joy, but what does Mom really need that she doesn’t already have?
Here are a few ideas for the mom who seems to have everything:
Diapers
I used to think diapers were sort of un-original in terms of baby gifts . . . that was until my co-workers had a diaper shower for me and Baby Boy 3. Thanks to their generosity, I didn’t have to buy diapers until he was 5 months old, and it was glorious. Not only did the gifted diapers saved me money, but I never had to think about running out. That was truly the biggest bonus, since after having number 3, my brain cells are in short supply!
Gift Cards
Gift cards for baby supplies are always appreciated, but don’t feel limited to your favorite baby store. Gift cards for local restaurants are always a big help for a busy family. Another idea is a gift card to the mom’s favorite photo developer, whether it’s Walgreens, Snapfish, or Chatbooks. I received one of these, and it inspired me to finally print off a ton of pictures that had been trapped on my phone forever.
Anything Monogrammed
As Reese Witherspoon said, “If it’s not moving, monogram it.” This is true with all things baby; from clothes to pillows to silver, the new baby needs at least one thing that is uniquely his or hers. Monogramming can also take on a practical function, with the baby’s name imprinted on items like clothing labels or these Inchbug Orbit Labels for bottles and sippy cups. Once Mom makes it out of the house, she’ll be glad to have a way to keep up with all of baby’s things while they’re on the go.
Gift Enclosures
Gift enclosures are one of those things I never think about until I need them. And that’s usually when I’m wrapping a birthday gift 10 minutes before I walk out the door! It’s always fun for a mom to see her new baby’s name in print, and personalized gift enclosures are a gift that can last for years. One of my friends gave these to my second son for his first birthday, and every time I use one, I think about our friendship.
Bibs, Burp Cloths, and Socks
These particular items are essential, but unfortunately, they don’t last very long. After one or two babies, bibs and burp cloths have both seen better days. As for socks, those tiny little things are so cute, but so frustrating because they have an uncanny way of disappearing. I blame the monster that lives in my washing machine.
Acts of Service
What better way to show a mom you love her than by lending a helping hand? This could take the form of dropping off dinner, getting the older kids out of the house for an hour or two, driving a carpool, or paying for a laundry/house cleaning/yard service. This last option is perfect for a group of friends who wants to go in together and split the cost. Reducing a mom’s stress and giving her more time with the baby is always a win!
