New parents often just had a baby shower where they got all the big essential items, so it can be hard to know what gifts they still need or will be useful. Some ideas, both for the baby and the parents:
- Baby outfit a few sizes up (6-12 months is a good range too shoot for -- not too far away, not too soon). Parents end up with lots of newborn outfits, so better to give the gift of an outfit they can use down the line. Be sure to think of the weather (for example, don't get a heavy sweatsuit in 6 month size for baby born in January).
- Picture frame for early baby photos.
- Food. This doesn't have to be a meal that you eat together. Often I'll bring something that can be eater later, like a frozen lasagna or a bunch of prepared salads. If you're in LA, Joan's on Third has a "Say it with Food" gift basket you can customize that they will deliver.
And finally, some things I wouldn't recommend:
- Stuffed animals. I know this is hard to hear. They are so cute, but people love to give them as gifts and most families end up with way, way too many.
- Anything huge that requires assembly that the family doesn't need immediately. For example, the newborn days are not the time to drop off a large Jumperoo or other toy that can't be used for several months.
