What parents may really want for gifts
Recently in MOMS group, there was discussion about the upcoming holidays and what moms really want or need as gifts. It’s so fun to shop for babies - adorable clothes, fun toys, plush blankets, etc. However, what these moms really hope for is a) more support and b) ability to buy what is needed that week. While gift certificates may be less cutesy and flashy to give, it may be exactly what many parents will most appreciate.
The most popular idea seemed unanimous - parents would love a gift certificate for a house cleaner. Taking that chore off their To-do list would be such a gift. Other exciting ideas were gift certificates for self-care, such as getting a massage, a pedicure, or a lunch out with a friend. As we’ve discussed in several blog posts, moms often struggle with putting their own needs first, yet this is so crucial for the wellness of the whole family. I saw a meme today on Instagram - “Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your kids”. I love that.
Other ideas were to dust off their baby registry lists with updates of items or clothes that mom and dad now know they need. Share this new list around the holidays. Parents get so much stuff when pregnant, and some of it never gets regularly used. Now that baby is months old, parents have a definite idea of what else may be helpful. Again, gift certificates to stores are always usable and gift certificates to local restaurants, a real treat.
I spoke up and suggested - how about a gift certificate for a postpartum doula? I couldn’t resist planting this idea. Many of us postpartum doulas support families until the baby is 12 months old. Imagine gifting someone a nap, a long hot shower, some peace and quiet, positive encouragement and support, someone to change and hold the baby, someone to bring mom or dad a snack and fold their laundry. Reminding mom this holiday season, that she deserves this break, this support and this time to care for herself.
