Being a new parent is quite a ride. First, there’s the pregnancy where you are anxiously awaiting your new bundle of joy to arrive. And then, it happens – the baby is born and life is completely different. Whether you have a child or not, being a parent involves a lot of emotional and physical energy. And when you’re experiencing those first few months as a parent, it can be hard to figure out your new “normal”.
As a friend of family member of a new parent, the best thing you can do during this busy, exciting time is to support them. Sometimes, that means going over to their house and making dinner for them or watching the baby so the new parents can enjoy a rare night out together.
To celebrate their new family addition, it’s an awesome idea to send new parents a thoughtful gift. And it doesn’t just have to be baby supplies, although new parents appreciate those, too!
Here are some of the 8 best gifts that every new parent needs:
- Aromatherapy Diffuser
No more candles now that baby is in the picture. An open flame and small children aren’t a good mix. However, you can give new parents something even better than a candle: a beautiful diffuser that adds a light, delicate scent to the room. Make sure to buy them some essential oils to go along with it in relaxing, calming scents like lavender, lemongrass, and vanilla.
- Bassinet
A bassinet that converts to a crib is a great gift for a new parent. The bassinet is useful when the new baby is young and sleeps next to Mom and Dad still. The bed-level height allows new parents to check on their little one throughout the night and makes it easy to comfort baby during those fussy moments.
And the best part? This particular model converts into a regular crib that’s appropriate for babies and toddlers up to three years old!
- Pacifier
Now, this might seem like a basic gift but a good pacifier goes a long way. Besides quieting and comforting a child, these novelty pacifiers also give your baby a cute little mustache. Or, you can get the new parents more traditional pacifiers in fun colors.
- Meal Subscription Service
New parents don’t always have time to go to the grocery store, research recipes, and then whip up a gourmet meal every night. So, why not give them the gift of easy-to-make meals in the form of a meal subscription service like Passion Delivery or Polpa?
It also gives Mom and Dad a chance to wind down after a busy day of work and parenting. What better way to reconnect than over delicious food?
- Milestone Journal
Pictures are one thing but the written word is a great way to preserve precious memories. A journal will allow a new parent to note the first time their bundle of joy laughed, their first word, and other incredible moments that happens as a baby grows. This is a thoughtful gift a new parent would love.
- Baby Essentials Gift Basket
If you are going to give your new-parent friends baby supplies, don’t just hand over a packet of diapers. Make it a creative gift! Turn the diapers into flowers or a “cake”. Add in other essentials like bottle cleaners and organic laundry detergent.
An electric bottle warmer or breast pump can be another great addition, too. Listen to your friends and see if they drop any casual hints about what baby supplies they need or want. Or, ask them to send you a wishlist!
- Movie Tickets and Babysitting Offer
Make a new parents’ night out gift basket. Include movie tickets, a gift card for a restaurant and a note telling the parents you’re ready for a night of babysitting so they can eat and relax without worrying about their little one. Alternately, treat them to a meal at one of Bangkok’s most baby-friendly cafes and eateries.
- A New Plant Baby
You might think a new parent doesn’t need any other added responsibilities but a plant doesn’t have to be a huge nuisance and can be a real de-stressor. Buy them a low-maintenance plant that cleans the air and makes their space a little more lively.
Gifts for New Parents
When a new parent is trying to figure out the ins and outs of raising a child, they might become hermits for a little bit as they adjust to their new life. However, as a friend or family member, you should know that this doesn’t mean they’re ignoring you, it just means they’re busy. Help them out when you can and make sure you know you’re there. Above all of the gifts on this list, a good support system means the most to new parents.