Becoming a father for the first time is exciting and a little scary. Nothing in a new dad's life quite prepares him to care for a baby. Often all the attention at this time seems to go to the baby and the new mother, yet there are ways to acknowledge a new dad. Many stores have gift registries that include baby gifts. Ask relatives and friends whether the new dad's family is registered anywhere. Take the new father's tastes and preferences into account when selecting a gift.
Useful Baby-Related Gifts
New fathers have a lot to think about, including the health and safety of the baby. Useful gifts for new fathers include baby monitors, electrical outlet covers, diapers, baby care books, baby bottles and furniture. If he likes the outdoors, he may like a jogging stroller or a backpack-style diaper bag to hold those extra diapers. Because busy parents are always on the go, both Mom and Dad can always use more diaper bags and other travel items.
Other Useful Gifts
There are useful gifts a new father would love that are not specifically baby-related. For example, if he is interested in photography, he may really like a new camera, tripod or color printer so he can take better pictures. A gift certificate to a home improvement store might be appreciated, as would a gift card to a favorite restaurant so he can have a night out with the new mother.
Commemorative Gifts
You only become a first-time father once. Any father will love a commemorative "Daddy" picture frame, with or without a picture of the baby already in it. Many stores and websites offer items that can be personalized with the baby's photo or hand print. These will be enjoyed by Dad for years to come and can be passed down through generations.
Fun Gifts
You can gently rib the new father's confusion with a "New Dad" T-shirt or funny baby-care book. Give a new dad a "care package" with real baby-care items along with headache medicine, his favorite snacks and earplugs so he can get some sleep.
Financial Gifts
Perhaps the best gift of all is to start a college fund for the baby, which will help relieve the new dad's financial burden. Buy a U.S. savings bond or open a bank account in the child's name. You may also consider making a charitable contribution in the name of the new father. This is an especially thoughtful gift if the new father actively supports a charity already.
