I found the perfect baby shower gift at thebabyhabit.com: it’s the New Mom & Baby Black Bag. Not only does it come with a pink toothbrush, slippers, and soap dish set, but there’s room for all of the things a new mom needs for her hospital stay. It makes a cute diaper bag as well. You can add a personalized text under the existing text for $5, a nice touch to an already thoughtful gift. For $34, it says “I’m thinking of you and baby”, something new moms will come to appreciate (it can be tough going from pampered pregnancy to new mom.)

While surfing the Internet today, I came across something I’d never heard of before - a Diaper Wreath. Of course, I know about diaper cakes, but a diaper wreath? This was something I had to see. I soon discovered that there are many crafters selling diaper wreaths, as baby shower items, gifts, and as a way to announce a new arrival. They vary wildly in price, from an elaborate one like the Lion Safari Double Wreath (above) by “Nancy” for $95, to some that are a bit more reasonable, like one on MyKidsCloset.com selling for $35. You get what you pay for, however, as the Lion Safari Wreath not only includes 45 Pampers Swaddlers diapers but also a Carter’s bib, socks, teethers, onesie, medicine dropper, aspirator…the list goes on and on. Basically it contains everything new parents will need when they bring that little bundle of joy home from the hospital. The smaller one that is $35 contains some of the same items, just not in the same quantity. I think this is a wonderful idea for a baby shower gift or a gift for new parents. Not only is it functional, it’s also very attractive!

As a nursing mother, I’m afraid I’m always the one on duty when it comes to night time feedings, but I still had to smile when I saw these new parent pillowcases from Wry Baby. The set includes two reversible cases reading “on duty” on one side and “off duty” on the other. The pillow cases are 100% cotton and would make a great gift for any new parent with a good sense of humor. You can purchase the set for $34 at babyexquisite.com.  

This Child-Rearing Roulette Parental Pointers Gift Set would make a fun gift for new parents. The way it works is simple: when it’s time for baby to be changed, or fed, or bathed, etc., parents won’t have to argue over who did what last - just spin the “Wheel of Responsibility” and end the discussion.

Most likely, both parents are totally involved in raising baby, but some days can be pretty tough whether you’re the one at home all day with baby or the one coming home after a long day at the office. Without meaning to, tensions can run a little high when we’re tired and strained. Something like this Parental Pointer game can ease some of the stress and add a little fun to the necessary routines. The less stressed and more relaxed mom and dad are, the better for baby. So take a time out when you both need it and “don’t sweat the small stuff.”

The Parental Pointers Gift Set includes a book on safe handling tips. Purchase one for $25.00 at UncommonGoods.