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Do you know someone who is having a summer baby and you’re looking for that perfect, unique gift that’s not on their registry? Or, maybe they don’t have one and you’d like to give something anyway.
While it’s fun to receive registered gifts or that adorable romper from a boutique, sometimes unwrapping practical (and maybe unconventional) items that fit the season is even more fun!
As a mother of two boys (born in June and July) and a promotor of outdoor living – I know firsthand what I’d give parents of warm weather babies. These are merely my opinions based on experience; I did not receive anything in return for this post. I simply want to share some ideas in case you’re looking for a new idea for your mom or dad-to-be.
Travel Bassinet
Sometimes mom needs to set baby down and doesn’t want to on the grass or in a swing. The Brica Fold n Go™ Travel Bassinet solves that problem. I love that it is flat, compact, and breathable, and lightweight for easy transportation. Our babes spent a lot of mornings and afternoons sleeping and playing in this gift while we boated or hung out near the shoreline. A summer must-have if you’re outside with newborns.
Bug Net
I hate seeing ants and spiders crawl on babies or hear mosquitos buzz around while they’re resting in their travel bassinet or stroller. But, I don’t love using bug spray on them, so this simple bug net fixes that issue! Fitting over pack ’n plays, car seats, swings, strollers, etc., its fine mesh construction allows for great airflow, giving parents peace of mind while letting baby enjoy some fresh air. An easy gift!
Sun Blanket
While shade is best, sometimes it’s not available. In my opinion, every baby needs the Coolibar UPF 50+ Sun Blanket (or a UPF towel). Knowing my baby was wrapped in UPF coverage (and even more coverage wearing his wide brim sun hat) allowed me to more easily enjoy the outdoors, which makes it an awesome gift for not only baby, but for parents too!
Sun Hat
Parents can be particular on what sun hats work best. But, we bought three styles (bucket, baseball, soft rim) before finding the i play. by green sprouts Sun Hat, my favorite sun hat for newborn-12 months. It’s soft enough to fit around their tiny heads cuddled in your arms, but has a rim firm enough to cover their face. For 12+ months, my pick is the Sunday Afternoon Kids Play Hat. Full head, neck and face coverage – a must for kids sensitive to sun and playing outside. The bucket hats always fell on my toddler’s face and the baseball caps had poor coverage, and this one stays put and covered.
Baby Wrap
Most moms research wraps until they’re blue in the face, but I’ve owned a Moby, LilleBaby Airflow, kangaroo sling, Baby K’tan and now a Solly Baby wrap (oh, how I love baby wearing!). The Solly is hands down my favorite because its long and stretchy like the Moby but its made of bamboo and it’s so thin, soft, and breathable–a must for wearing babies in the summer! I also love that it has a built-in pocket so I can stuff it together when I’m finished. My LilleBaby is great for cooler summer days, but it only works well for me when baby is 10+ pounds (Solly is nice for wearing smaller newborns).
Fan
While not a true necessity, a nice-to-have accessory if baby spends a lot of time in the humid, hot MN summers is a clip-on fan! Giving off a gentle breeze, this battery-operated fan has foam blades making it baby-friendly and toddler-safe — a must in my book. It’s nice to clip on the stroller, swing, or boat to help baby feel less sticky hanging outside with the crew. We found our littles slept better, too, with a light fan breeze on their face. This makes a simple, easy gift.
Water Bottle
Keep parents hydrated with a stainless steel water bottle that keeps beverages cold for hours on hot summer days! I personally like water bottles wide enough to fit large ice cubes, but with a spout for easy drinking. It’s fun to receive a new water bottle just for you!
Have fun shopping for your next gift to give! I’d love to hear what other unconventional gifts you’ve given or received as part of celebrating a new baby. Share by commenting below!
