Does my baby really need “presents” for Christmas? I find myself pondering on this once again as I am about to welcome baby boy number two, just as I did with my first son. And the answer is, Why not?! lol I mean, of course, whether newborn or under the age of two, they may not grasp the idea of it all, but this is where you get to be strategic and creative in your approach. As the parent, you get to set the standard and mindset around the holidays and giving gifts. To which the only advice I have is, be wise, mama. Be wise. lol
As you read, click any picture, and it will take you straight to the item, or click the direct description links below!
THE STRATEGY.
When I was searching for gifts for my son’s first birthday and Christmas…pause. YES, my son was born on Christmas, so this method of approach has been a lifesaving implementation into this process. I start by categorizing the gifts into these four areas: want, need, wear, and read, which creates ample opportunity for me to be intentional in my final selections without the fear of going overboard. Contemplating questions like:
- What does my child really seem to be drawn to?
- What can I introduce to my child?
- What activities or items has my child expressed interest in?
- What have I observed my child being really good at and how can I better foster it?
- What does my child already know and/or need to learn?
- How are his/her clothes currently fitting?
- Does their wardrobe match my own in caliber, style, and effort?
The list could go on and on, but I think you get the point. There is so much freedom within this structure that I have found beautiful, and I hope you do too! I’ve selected a few items in each category that I plan to purchase for my baby boy or already purchased for my now toddler in the past. Either way, I highly recommend all of the items, and I hope this helps you get ready for the holidays!
1. WANT
This category comprises all the things you truly want for them to introduce new concepts, future developmental milestones, etc. All of the things you know without a doubt they would love and enjoy almost no matter what.
The Lovevery Play Gym is, without a doubt, one of my favorite items to recommend. If you’ve read my blog on Newborn Essentials, then you know how much we love it here and why. This playmat has everything needed to grow developmentally with your baby from newborn to age one. I completely support and can confirm that this is true. There literally aren’t enough words to express how amazing this is.
Stacking Tower Cups and rings are great educational additions even for your baby. Not only are they fun and attention-grabbing for your baby, but they are also great for sensory play and motor skill-building.
2. NEED
This category comprises all of the items that you know your child needs. The things that may be missing from their wardrobe are tools to assist them in adjusting or navigating everyday life.
The Savor Deluxe Baby Edition Keepsake Box is a must-have. Although you will hold on to it most, I guarantee that your baby will thank you for it later as it will house all of your baby’s most important moments in one convenient place.
This Plan Toy Elephant Bank was honestly too cute to pass up. The fact that it’s handcrafted, non-toxic, and play boosts your child’s language and communication skills, etc., is a major plus! It’s perfect for storing all of the coins they will collect, developing fine motor skills, eventually educating them about money and more.
The Joovy Spoon Walker will be a repeat item in our household. It’s practical, sleek, and provides so much safety and developmental support due to its broad build alone.
3. WEAR
This category comprises all the items you’d like to add to their wardrobe. We all know how fast these little people grow, so it never hurts to have a few new items on deck in the next size up or even to add for the winter season.
The Goumi brand is AMAZING! I love them! You can never have too many pajamas or lounge sets for your baby, and the quality of these is unbelievably soft as they are made of bamboo-derived viscose and organic cotton. Their design is intentional and convenient, creating a stress-free experience during those diaper changes that we all love. Plus, they have matching sets for your older kids as well. How cute! You can also find them here.
A Knit Fleece Jumpsuit like this one is a perfect addition to your baby’s wardrobe for the season’s cooler weather and even into the Spring season if you decide to size up.
Jeans are a staple in pretty much everyone’s closet, so why not baby too?
This Corduroy Trucker Jacket is such a standout for your little guy, and I can’t wait to add it to my baby’s closet.
Dr. Martens Newborn 1460 is a classic boot across the board. A capsule item, if you will, and I simply couldn’t pass up on the opportunity for a family matching moment. These are adorable and perfect for keeping your baby’s feet covered, warm, and stylish during the fall and winter seasons.
4. READ
This category comprises all things educational in nature—everything from books to activities to foster academic growth somehow.
This collection of Lift-a-flap books is perfect for building your baby’s library. It introduces everything from animals and vehicles to opposites and first words. It’s never too early to start reading to your little one. Reading proves to be beneficial in setting your baby up for success in stimulating language skills, cognitive thinking skills, and enhancing memory. You can find more of my favorites here.
Do you have a method of choice that you use to make these tough decisions? Was this helpful to you? If so, I would love to hear more about it, so be sure to comment below. Don’t forget to subscribe for updates! Happy Holidays to you and yours from me and mine!
