A new baby is a major event and causes a dramatic shift in the way the household runs. So many things need to be removed or arranged so that the new little one is safe and healthy in the home. Choosing a baby safe shower gift is a thoughtful and caring idea and with all the great safety stuff available today, you can really get a great gift.
One great idea for a baby safe shower gift is a pail or decorative basket filled with items to baby proof a home. Things to include would be outlet covers, cabinet locks, hand sterilizers, baby hats, baby sun block creams, and sleeping wedges. Some of these items won't be needed right away, but the day baby starts to crawl, mom will be ready to lock up the dangerous parts of the house. Consider using a see-through tub decorated with painted stencils as the basket to store all the safety gear until baby is older.
Books on baby health and safety will be appreciated by any mother, especially if this is her first born. Look for books that are simply organized so that a frantic mom could find information quickly. Titles that deal specifically with the first year of life are also good choice because they can really increase a first time mom's confidence.
Other great baby safe shower gifts would be luxury-type items that might be beyond mom's budget with a new one in her life. Consider sun shades or baby cabanas so mom and child can get some fresh air without burning baby's delicate skin. Baby monitors could be the perfect blend of practicality and safety. If your checkbook is a bit thin, think about getting a couple of other guests together to split the cost and upgrade to the model with all the bells and whistles. Classic baby books start a tradition of reading off on the right foot and are totally safe for a newborn. There are titles especially meant to ease baby to sleep. Maybe you could pair this up with some of the infant lullaby tapes for a soothing gift both parents will appreciate.
If you want to give something traditional, but still make sure you are giving a baby safe shower gift, here are some pointers.
-Make sure outfits are free of chocking hazards and fabrics won't tangle up fingers and toes.
-Read labels on all toys and check carefully with your own eyes for small parts that would pose a chocking hazard.
-Blankets should be flame retardant and free of small toe and finger grabbing holes.
-Check the internet and store bulletin boards for recalled products and identified hazards.
-Watch out for gifts that have moveable parts that can pinch.
-Carefully read all labels, warnings, and information for any gift you select and make sure all paperwork is included with your gift.
Baby's safety is a top priority for all parents and you are a good friend to be thinking about this topic. Check with sales clerks and other parents if you are unsure about your gift choice. Baby web sites and magazines will have loads of comments about specific products and can be your best resources for sage advice. Parents love to speak out about baby things they love and those they feel are a hazard. Many internet stores have places for parents to comment and are often set up with specific shopping pages for babies. You can use the different pages to select a gift and then see what other parents have to say about it. Chat up any of your friends who have young children and they will certainly point out potentially harmful gifts, and also safe ones they loved. Common sense and some research will lead you to the perfect choice for a baby safe shower gift.
