Category Archives: Gift ideas

Alternative Gifts To Celebrate the Birth of a Baby

From tiny clothes and cozy blankets to soft toys, people love to bring or send presents for new babies. It’s hard to resist these adorable items, but offering a gift to another member of the family could be a welcome alternative. Here are some ideas of what to give in honor of the baby.

Image by Nico H. from Pixabay

Something for Mom

A typical new mother is exhausted from around-the-clock feedings and perhaps feeling a little less like herself. Something specifically for her, such as a spa or nail salon gift card, will give her the occasion to pamper herself. Another gift card option is one for her favorite clothing store. After months in maternity clothes, she’ll most likely be ready for a new outfit. For the mom who needs some encouragement, a book of short inspirational quotes or meditations may be just what she needs. If she finds comfort in doing meditation, she may also enjoy psychic readings being offered by a spirit guide to uplift her mood.

Something for Siblings

If the baby has older brothers or sisters, they may feel jealous and overshadowed by the noticeable focus on the newborn. When siblings receive special attention from friends and family members, they may be more inclined to celebrate the new little one. Bringing the older child new toys or games can make them feel noticed and appreciated. Cookie bouquets are another great option for young children and bigger kids, since they are fun to look at and delicious to eat. 

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Something for Dad

The father of the new baby might just be the most overlooked family member. He may not want to admit it, but a first-time father can feel hesitant about his new role and wish for some guidance. A parenting book just for dads can make him feel more prepared and connected. Even an experienced dad might like a journal to record memories of the baby’s early life from his unique perspective. 

Providing gifts for the many needs of a newborn is one way to support the family, but it’s fine to change things up. Bringing presents for the baby’s family members can convey encouragement for them in their very important new roles.

3 Unique Baby Shower Gift Ideas

If you have been invited to attend a baby shower for a friend, you obviously want to bring the perfect gift. Cute baby clothes are a go-to since they are fun to shop for, but it is likely that the mom-to-be is going to be inundated with clothing, much of which the baby will never even get to wear. If you are stumped on what to give, here are some unique gift ideas that your friend will love.

Image by Annie Spratt from Pixabay

Books

Children’s books make great baby shower gifts. Give books that you or your own children loved for a personal touch, and write a message inside on the title page. Reading to babies has numerous benefits, including building memory and vocabulary skills, so your gift will help the new baby to grow and to develop mentally.

Willow Tree New Life

Interesting Keepsakes

A lovely keepsake, such as Willow tree figurines, is a heartfelt gift that you friend is sure to love. Choose one with a baby theme, or one that represents her pregnancy. A small item like this is easy for your friend to place anywhere in her home, and will make her think of you whenever she sees it.

Photo by Hope House Press – Leather Diary Studio on Unsplash

A Pregnancy Journal

Your friend may have a baby book to fill as soon as the baby is born, but a journal that she can fill out while she is pregnant can also be fun and useful to reference down the road. Should she experience another pregnancy, she can look back through her notes to remind herself of how she felt and what she was doing at certain stages. 

Picking the perfect gift for a soon-to-be-mom can be tough, especially if this is her first child. However, there are many fun ways to surprise your friend if you want something unique that isn’t on the gift registry. 

Using Creativity to Relax and Unwind

There are plenty of ways to reduce stress in your life, from exercise to meditation to simple self care. But did you know arts and crafts can also help you relax and unwind from the tensions of the day? The act of focusing on something that’s pleasant and enjoyable helps activate different areas of your brain while taking your mind off of your stressors. So, plan a trip to your favorite craft store long beach ca and try one of these activities to increase your creativity and decrease the stress in your life.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paint_by_number#/

Coloring or Paint By Number

Coloring for adults is now a huge trend, and for good reason. If you love to make beautiful pictures but aren’t an accomplished artist, coloring books for grownups can help you create detailed finished products while giving you the guidelines for a beautiful design. Pick up some high-quality markers and color in a relaxing spot in your home. If painting is more your style, pick up a paint by number kit and create a replica of some of your favorite well-known masterpieces.

Knitting or Crocheting

The repetitive motion of knitting or crocheting can be very calming, and is relatively easy to pick up if you’re just starting out. Select a good instruction book for beginners, or find some online tutorials for simple pieces you’d like to make. Select yarns in colors and materials you truly love and start making scarves, hats, blankets and simple dish cloths. With a little practice, you may find yourself ready to tackle more complex projects in no time.

Jewelry Making

There are so many materials and options when it comes to designing your own jewelry. Start with the basics by finding a design book or taking a class for beginners to learn how to properly string and secure beads, weave fabric cords or twist and shape wires. Once you’ve mastered basic techniques, the possibilities are endless!

If you’re looking for new ways to manage the stress in your life, consider a new creative hobby. You may find a new passion in the process!