Do you have a friend or family member who's having a baby shower? Thinking of a plush toy or dozens of cute onesies for the shower gift? Surprise! The mom-to-be's mind is more likely to be on safety than on fun.
All new mothers worry about the safety of their baby. You can help soothe some of her concerns with a baby shower gift that will help keep baby safe and Mom happy.
Baby Gates
The baby may only be seven pounds at birth, but in no time at all that little bundle of joy will be toddling around his or her home. Babies often pull themselves up to a standing position sooner than a new mother might expect. Think ahead by giving a secure baby gate as a baby shower gift.
Gates come in wood or plastic. Some gates require being secured to the doorway with screws. These are great for areas that will more or less be permanently off-bounds to the baby, such as the kitchen, where the tempting stove knobs and dangerous cleaning chemicals await.
For come-and-go sectioning off, pressure gates are best. These either have an arm that pushes down or rubberized sides that can be fitted to most average-sized doorways and openings.
For as little as $20, a baby gate can be the perfect baby shower gift that won't break your budget.
Door Knobs, Cabinets and Drawers
Give the mom-to-be peace of mind with a Safety Basket gift set. You can fill the basket with some or all of the following since each is a very economical purchase.
Safety latches for cabinets and drawers.
Safety covers for door knobs. Adults can turn the knob, but Baby can't!
Plastic plug-in covers for exposed electric outlets.
Sliding door locks.
Window wedges or locks.
Soft doorstops to prevent pinched fingers.
Keep in mind the following safety tips when choosing a baby shower gift for maximum safety.
During infancy, plush toys should never go into the crib or be placed next to your baby while she is napping.
Make sure any stuffed animals have short fur and are firmly stuffed.
Fabric toys such as dolls and stuffed animals are better if they don't have small removable parts.
Tiny bows might look adorable on a fabric doll, but they are also the perfect size to be plucked off and can potentially end up in the baby's mouth.
Pillow gifts should be for decorative purposes only.
According to pediatricians, infants shouldn't have pillows in the crib. If you make or dress up a pillow and give it as a gift, it should be considered a keepsake.
Alternatively, purchase a pillow for mom. A nursing pillow or supportive back and neck pillows can be a godsend.
Baby toys should be plastic rather than metal, and rounded rather than sharp edges are best.
Don't buy a toy that is small enough to get into Baby's mouth. When in doubt, be liberal and buy the next size up.
Small add-on parts to baby toys are also a no-no. One-piece items are best at this stage.
Put safety first when choosing your baby shower gift. Options will still be plentiful, and you'll give your guest of honor the added gift of peace of mind.
