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This is what you should actually bring to see a new baby

We all have the best intentions when it comes to bringing gifts to new parents, but there are cute baby toys, and then there are things the new mum and dad actually need.

Reaching for that adorable teddy or super soft onesie may seem like the most natural thing (especially if you haven't had much experience with babies yourself), so we've complied a list of alternative ideas that are slightly more practical and not just another piece of clothing the bub will grow out of before you know it.

They have a lot on their mind at the moment so try to do the thinking for them and bring something they really need. Source:  Village Roadshow Pictures
They have a lot on their mind at the moment so try to do the thinking for them and bring something they really need. Source: Village Roadshow Pictures

Food:

Finding the time and energy to go grocery shopping and make the kind of healthy and nutritious meals you need while breastfeeding, is one of the hardest things to do in the early days, so bringing food will ALWAYS be appreciated.

Anything that is home-cooked, or meals that don't need much extra prep, are such a blessing to new parents. Something that fits in the freezer is also a bonus in the event they can't eat it on the day.

A new parent can never be offered to many ready made meals and snacks. Source: Village Roadshow Pictures
A new parent can never be offered to many ready made meals and snacks. Source: Village Roadshow Pictures

If you want to think outside the go-to casserole, some great options recommended by new parents are; freshly chopped fruit and vegetables, breakfast smoothies, freezable dinners, lasagna, soups and plenty of snacking food.

Even just a coffee and a muffin on arrival could make their day.


Your Services:

Not everyone has the time or money to prepare a feast, but you don't always have to come with something physical. Simply bringing yourself and offering a helping hand can be much appreciated.

Whether it be taking their dog for a walk, watching their older kids, doing a quick shop for the essentials, doing the laundry, or helping to clean up the house, any of these gestures will really help and are a great option instead of a gift. * Rules to follow when meeting a new baby


Naturally, you should always ask before you start sifting through their dirty clothes, but offering to do something specific - like cleaning the kitchen - rather than generally asking if there's anything you can do to help , is a good start.

Offering your time and a helping hand will always be most appreciated. Source: HBO
Offering your time and a helping hand will always be most appreciated. Source: HBO


Gift cards:

Gift cards for meal deliveries, take out food, Amazon, the local grocery store or a baby store they love are great options if you want to buy something useful but don't know exactly what they need. Anything with an option for home delivery is obviously preferable.

You could even consider a subscription for Netflix or Stan for those late nights when they are up nursing, or for quick access to children's movies that might entertain their other kids.

Getting them a gift card for something they can buy online and get easily delivered is another helpful option. Source: Getty
Getting them a gift card for something they can buy online and get easily delivered is another helpful option. Source: Getty


Practical gifts:

If you really want to bring a physica; gift, forget the basic onesie or soft toy option, and instead consider something that is a little more practical.

One mother suggested gifting paw paw ointment - great for rashes, cuts, bites, sore nipples, and even as a lip gloss.

Or even some baby-friendly cleaning products that they might not have, to cut through the grease of breast milk/formula or baby poop/spit.

Consider a gift that is not so much 'cute' but rather 'practical,' something they may need in the middle of the night perhaps. Source: Getty
Consider a gift that is not so much 'cute' but rather 'practical,' something they may need in the middle of the night perhaps. Source: Getty

Another super easy gift is a photo. Sure, they have probably taken millions of snaps of their new bub, but they're less likely to have many with themselves in the photo.

A family photo (that isn't a selfie) is a memory they'll have forever, and if you're able to print it off for them, that's even better. tWho doesn't want cherish the first few weeks of parenthood?

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