If a friend, coworker, or family member has just announced that she’s pregnant, you probably have some questions about how to support her and how to find the right gifts. Sometimes new moms can feel overwhelmed by all of this well-meaning advice. So, it’s best to stay away from psychology books or parenting advice, and remember that no one can do a better job of being that baby’s mom than the baby’s mom.
But there are still plenty of great gift ideas that any new mom will appreciate. Stick to the basics, and your attention will be treasured and remembered for years to come.
Here’s a simple list of 5 things a new mom can’t do without.
1. sleeping. While not something you find in stores, this is probably the most important item on your list. A new mom should remember that while life will never go back to “normal,” there will start to be a new “normal,” and eventually, she will start to feel human again. You can help promote mom’s sleep by offering to watch the kids while she naps or, better yet, by asking for a half-hour massage after dad gets home from work.
2. burp cloths. Babies spit up. A lot. Burp cloths can be as simple as a stash of old cloth diapers or as fancy as any of the organic designer embroidered styles available. Moms always need more burpies and most love to try different styles.
3. receiving sheets. These provide a clean place to lay the baby down for diaper changes or tummy time. These simple blankets are great for swaddling for the first few months and are useful for blocking the sun from a baby sleeping in a car seat. There is never enough – a super safe gift option.
4. diapers. Cloth diapers are making a comeback with options like the Fuzzi Bunz and Kushies making it easy for those who want to “recycle” without the pins and plastic covers. Disposable diapers are available in standard brands, as well as unbleached or all-cotton versions. Whether it’s profitability or convenience that wins, diapers are a must. Again, trying out different styles is a good way to find what works best, so friends can help with the search.
5. baby bags. Parents no longer have to fill necessities in oversized purses or gym bags. Diaper bags have come a long way, baby, and designer diaper bags are the trend. The basic black is available, but the other options are so varied that there is sure to be the perfect bag for just about anyone, man or woman. Whether it’s a small bag or an ideal backpack, the bags available today have everything from insulated pockets to bottle warmer bags. Most come with waterproof changing pads and pockets for every toy, wipe, and butt treatment imaginable. Whether the bag is for mom or dad, it also makes a difference in style. No more flowery bags for dad’s day at the park, there’s a style for him too.
Whether breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or both, these simple items are sure to be useful and appreciated by any new mom. Trust your intuition and you will surely find a gift that will help mom rest, wash or dress her precious newly arrived from her.