Purchasing a gift for a first baby involves deciding what the new parents and baby will need that fits into your giving budget. Whether you are a friend or family member of the new family, you can find a gift that takes the parents and baby into consideration. From gifts that can be used immediately to gifts that help to plan for the future, there are numerous possibilities.
Diapers
With the cost of diapers alone for the baby’s first year totaling over $550, diapers are usually a welcome gift. When you are purchasing the diapers, buy size 1 or 2 diapers to ensure all of the diapers get used. If the expectant parents receive newborn-size diapers from a lot of people, it is likely that the baby will outgrow the diapers before they are used.
Gift Certificates
Giving gift certificates to the expectant parents allows them to purchase the items they need for their first baby. When you are deciding where to purchase the gift certificate, consider the cost of the items and the proximity of the store to the expectant parents, as well as the available selection of baby items. It is likely that the parents will have some items that are still needed, even after the baby shower. Gift certificates also enable the parents to put the funds on the gift certificate toward larger items the baby will need, such as crib or car seat.
Savings Bonds or College Savings Plans
While the savings bonds won’t provide the expectant parents with any immediate assistance, they will provide the baby with funds in the future. These can be used toward college expenses, purchasing a home or car, or any other way the child sees fit in the future. If savings bonds won’t work, consider giving funds to put in a college savings plan, such as a Section 529 plan or a Coverdell Education Savings Account. Both of these options offer the child money for college; however, the Coverdell Education Savings Account can be used for any education expenses, such as tuition help for a private elementary or high school.
Services
After bringing their first baby home, the parents may become overwhelmed. As such, a gift of your time is usually a welcome gift. You can offer to come over and watch the baby for the parents to have a date night or a night of rest at home while you care for the baby. Other options include offering to prepare meals for the family once they return home or offering to clean the house for the parents while they spend time with the baby.
