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Party Time

A Grandparent's Guide to Baby Shower Gift Ideas

By Jessica Williams

Many items can enhance a mother's daily life with her new baby while allowing her to keep doing what she loves. If your guest of honor loves to go cycling, a bicycle trailer and infant helmet would be great gifts. Or if she likes to take long morning walks, a stroller and diaper bag may be helpful. Because babies take numerous naps throughout the day, a mother who likes to garden may find a baby monitor useful for keeping tabs on when her little one wakes up while she is outside.

Sometimes, a mother may need extra safety items for her house. If she has stairs, a gate would be appreciated for when her baby is mobile. Stay away from items that might create dangerous situations, like baby walkers. Walkers not only pose a threat to babies who live in houses with stairs, but they can also be dangerous for little ones because they place them at a higher level where they might reach items that can cause injury. Other safety items that are always important in any house are electrical outlet plugs, cabinet locks and corner bumpers for sharp coffee tables and counters.

Besides giving gifts that are helpful for both baby and parents, you might also consider giving special items to mom - for her use only. Comfort gifts such as bath baskets that contain dissolvable beads, fragrant soaps and lufas are a great relaxation gift. A special mommy journal or scrapbook accessories are good for moms who like to write or take photos. And don't forget dad! Perhaps a book (Becoming a Father by William Sears is a popular one) or a gift certificate to his favorite steak house would be appreciated.