Gifts 101

While everyone loves looking at that darling picture frame, hand-crocheted blanket, or monogrammed towel, practical gifts are necessary items when new parents are trying to prepare for the arrival of their precious infant. Remember, whatever they don't receive as a gift will still have to be purchased, so don't worry if the gift you choose to give is perceived as practical. Practical is also necessary! Practical baby gifts may include the following:

• Diapers (If you aren't sure of the size, purchase a couple of different sized packages and place the receipt along with your purchase in case they need to be returned.

• Wipes (The parents of a baby can really never have too many wipes on hand. These will be used even when the baby has become an active toddler!)

• Toiletry items (You could give a gift box or basket full of such items as baby shampoo, baby wash, diaper ointment, nail clippers, brush, etc.)

• Burp cloths (Sure, you may notice that the new baby receives quite a few lovely embroidered burp cloths, but do you really think those will be used? Babies spit up a lot! Go ahead and purchase a package of burp cloths to give! They'll be appreciated!)

• Hooded bath towels and wash cloths (You can often find sets of bath towels and wash cloths, along with a cute tub toy to boot!)

• Laundry essentials (Babies go through several changes of clothes every day. That's a lot of laundry! Purchasing baby detergent along with a baby spot remover is a great idea for a gift!)

• Baby blankets (These can be small receiving blankets or larger thermal blankets. They come in lots of colors, textures, and sizes.)