Thoughtful Gifts for a New Baby

Claudia Assad

The birth of a new baby is a huge moment in anyone's life, whether it's their first or fifth. But some people may feel a little unsure about what to buy. When someone you know has a baby, it doesn't feel like a gift could express your thoughts and feelings. There are lots of ways you can celebrate the birth by offering your support and presents. You should give them space to be a family before visiting, as well as offering them a present to welcome the new baby. You can get gifts for both for the parents and child.

Cards

Cards are useful for any occasion. Although they might not be on display for long, some people will put them away and keep them for a long time. Or they may use them for scrapbooking or crafting to turn them into something new. A simple card can give you the chance to say some heartfelt and meaningful things. You can't write a message on a box of chocolates. Plus, it allows you to say congratulations without being too intrusive. A card can come through the post, instead of needing to be delivered in person.

Flowers

Flowers are another classic gift that work for just about anything. They won't last forever, but you can always dry and press them as a keepsake. They're a thoughtful gesture, and they're appropriate if you're unsure of how close your relationship is with the family. It's also easy to order flowers even if you're halfway around the world using an online flower store. Just find one that delivers locally to them. Most services will take international payments.

Practical Items

Any new parent will appreciate something practical. Babies have a huge list of things they need, so anything you give will be welcome. Think about giving nappies and wipes, clothes, toys and perhaps even vouchers for parent and baby stores. If you're not sure what to get, ask the parents if there's anything they need. It might turn out that they have too much of one thing and not enough of another.

Keepsakes and Trinkets

As much as practical gifts are always welcome, sometimes you want to give something that just looks good. When a baby is born, lots of us give little keepsakes and trinkets at the birth or christening. You can consider things like jewellery and personalised gifts. Another excellent idea is gifting the family with a session at a photography studio. They can have a family photo shoot so they've got official photos together.

Handmade Present

Everyone loves a gift that you've made yourself. If you're in any way handy or crafty, you could make something for the new family. Knit the child a jumper, bake the parents a cake or make them some candles. You could create something for the child's new room to help them personalise their space.

The process to adopt a child might be different to having one the old-fashioned way. But it's no less momentous an occasion, and it should be celebrated just as much.

Making Bath Time Less Stressful With Little Ones

Trying to bathe your child can go one of two ways. The first is that they absolutely love it and they get excited at the noise of the bath running. The second is that they find it extremely upsetting and kick up a huge fuss. If your child is in the second category, then you’re not alone. There are plenty of children who can’t think of anything worse than getting in the bath. Whether it’s because they don’t like their hair being washed or simply don’t like getting wet. Here are some top tips on how to make bath time less stressful.

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Start Early

It’s a good idea to turn this into part of your everyday routine, as early on as possible. After dinner, comes the bath. The sooner you get your child used to this, the easier it will be when they hit the terrible toddler tantrum age. Make sure that everything runs like clockwork, when it comes to bath time. They will quickly learn that this is going to happen every day, whether they like it or not!

Don’t Make a Fuss

If you are worried or nervous about bathing your child, they will be too. It’s like if you get anxious about taking them to the dentist for the first time. They’ll pick up on your worries and it will make them feel uneasy. Make sure that you’re all cheerful and happy when it comes to bath time. Even if you know they’re going to be awkward about it. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to get them to relax.

Talk About the Problem

If your child is a little bit older, find out why they don’t like getting in the bath. It may be something silly, such as they find it too cold when they get out. If this is the case then you’ll easily be able to rectify the situation. Simply make sure you have their clothes ready when they're all dry, for example. By talking to them you’re making them feel more grown-up and in control, too. This means they’ll be far more likely to come around to your way of thinking. Especially if there is some kind of compromise involved.

Add Some Fun

Some children simply find bath time boring, and they don’t want to have to sit in lukewarm water for 20 minutes. If this is the case, then you need to add some excitement. You can try these fun bath activities to inject something special into the occasion. Make bathing some kind of adventure, that they look forward to every evening. Read them a story in the bath or buy some toys that they can play with. These little changes can make a big difference.

Every Other Day

It’s okay not to bathe your child every single day, you know! Some parents worry that their child is going to be the smelly one in class if they don’t get in the bath every evening. However, it may be better for your child if you do bath time every other day. As long as they’re getting a good wash before bed and in the morning, this should be plenty.

Hopefully these tips and tricks will help make the next bath time less stressful. Remember to keep a positive attitude despite the tantrums. It will make the whole thing a lot easier, in the long run. å