My favorite gifts for newborns

I received a gift card from Marshalls in exchange for this post.  All opinions are my own.

Did you know September is the month with the most births in the U.S.?  According to The Daily Viz, the days between September 9-20 are the most popular birthdays in the United States over the past twenty years.  It’s statistically probable (something I rarely have confidence saying, but I think we’re good…) one of you is celebrating a birthday or the arrival of a newborn, so congrats! And if you’re celebrating neither, but you like cute stuff… I’ve got you covered too with plenty of my favorite gifts for newborns, new parents and older siblings.

Throughout the month of September, Marshalls is offering an expanded selection of (really!) adorable baby items at incredible prices.  I have zero chill when it comes to baby things, so when I stopped in earlier this week to pick up a few gifts for an upcoming baby shower, I could barely contain myself.  

Whether you’re shopping for your own children, a family or friend, or getting a jump on holiday shopping (please mentor me), September is a great time to hit up Marshalls for baby gifts.

Here are a few of my recent finds (isn’t that the best part of shopping at Marshalls and other TJX stores?) and recommendations.

MY FAVORITE GIFTS FOR NEWBORNS

The staples

You can’t go wrong with bibs, burp cloths and swaddling blankets.  Our children are 3 1/2 and 21 months and we are still using all three in heavy rotation.  

Something soft

Marshalls has the best selection of blankets (many come beautifully packaged and ready for gift-giving).  I picked up two cotton quilts in gender-neutral grey and striped chambray that would be great for keeping a newborn warm in a stroller or car seat, but could also be used later on in a toddler’s crib or bed.

*Gentle reminder: please check out the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines on safe sleep for babies here.  

Books and educational toys

You can’t go wrong with a good book (and it’s never too early to read to children).  I love this Baby Animals book because it’s interactive (lots of flaps and textures) and the bold graphics are perfect infants.  Marshalls has a great selection of books and educational toys at unbelievable prices.  Most books and toys are labeled for age appropriateness, taking the guesswork out of shopping.  I found a few of my kids’ favorites while I was there– Grace especially loves giving copies of her favorite books to her younger cousins and friends.

Looking for book recommendations? Here are a few of our favorite summer reads.

Something sort of ridiculous but incredibly cute

This two piece knit set had me swooning.  Is it practical?  Probably not.  Most parents register for the things they actually need… so why not include something over the top cute with that box of diapers or crib sheets or onesies?  This set would be perfect for newborn photos or snuggling at home during those first few sleepy weeks.

Unconventional nursery decor

How fun would this light box (a definite #marshallssurprise at less than $10) be in a nursery?  You could use it for monthly photos (something I forgot to do… every single month… for both children), post love notes, or simply write out your child’s name.  In a pinch, it would also make a decent nightlight at 3 AM.  

Don’t forget about mama

Don’t forget about mama!  Marshalls has plenty of small gifts for new mothers, too– and anything you can do to encourage moms to care for themselves will surely be appreciated.  Time for self care feels limited in the early days, so consider keeping things simple.  This rose water hydrating mist would be a lovely addition to any baby gift.  I love the minimalist packaging and super subtle fragrance, and it’s something a mother could use one handed… in the wee hours of the morning…

And something for older siblings

Okay, maybe don’t give a toddler a harmonica, especially when there’s a newborn in the house (says the woman who put a tambourine in Grace’s Christmas stocking just weeks after baby Nick was born… I blame lack of sleep…).  But I know those older siblings appreciate being showered, too!  These infant and “big kid” toys featuring characters from our favorite books would be such a fun gift for a family with more than one child… and soundproof walls.  

Seriously, though.  Skip the harmonica.  I stand by everything else.  Happy Birthday, September babies.

Also On Tap for Today:

• If the hydrating mist doesn’t work: How To Feel Like a New Person in 15 Minutes from Apartment Therapy
• X-rays and a new (dinosaur!) cast for Nick
• 18 After-School Snacks, All Grown Up from Serious Eats

What is your favorite gift for newborns, new mamas or older siblings?