Beyond Gift-Giving: Ideas for Second-Baby Showers
A baby shower is one of the nicest ways for new parents to acquire the items that they need to have a smooth start to parenthood. It allows family and friends to show the mom-to-be how much love and support she has. It has often been considered excessive to have a shower for a second child, as mom and dad were likely to already have everything they needed. However, it is no longer improper to hold a shower for a second baby, as long as you make a few adjustments.
The shower could be a mini-shower focusing on those essential items that every baby needs, no matter how many older siblings - like diapers, undershirts, and bath accessories. You can add to the gift registry those items which the parents did not receive with their first baby. Some people choose to hold a shower where the gifts are for mom, with guests bringing items that she’ll likely need during the final weeks leading up to, as well as after, the birth. She’ll appreciate receiving something soothing like aromatherapy candles, or even something for day-to-day use, like a soft robe.
Another great idea is to have a mom-focused shower - but reminding her that she’s not just a mom, with gifts that are for her alone, like romantic perfume or a bit of sexy (supporting!) lingerie. The guests might choose to pool together to buy a gift certificate for something extravagant like a day for two at the spa or a fancy dinner - but be sure to include babysitting arrangements. Another idea is to have a planning meeting with dad and the guests before the party, in order to schedule days and times where help is likely to be needed, using a dry-erase calendar.
Some tasks that you could arrange for include getting the house organized and laundry done so mom and baby can come home to a clean house, helping transport the older child to his/her activities, or going along to help out on a big grocery or warehouse club run. Mom will be delighted at receiving this calendar full of helpful offers, as well as the names and phone numbers of the helpers (in case of changes). Sometimes, both the baby and the mom have everything they need already. You might choose to simply have a party, inviting the mom’s closest friends and family.
You could ask the guests to buy baby items, smaller items like diapers and clothing, and then bring them to donate to a women’s charity or shelter. You might also ask everyone to bring small portions of prepared food that can be frozen or stored (this is known as a “freezer party”). Mom will definitely need and appreciate this help as she approaches her due date and also after the birth. Make sure that mom knows about the shower ahead of time so she can determine if she has enough room for everything, and also pick a day for the shower which is close to her due date.
Do keep in mind that in the case of caboose babies (a “caboose” baby is born several years after the next-oldest sibling), a full shower can be held with no impropriety. A lot of moms and dads won’t likely have even the big items (cribs, etc.), anymore, or they could be outdated in terms of safety requirements.
Keep in mind that the main reason you are there, no matter what kind or how many gifts are given, is to celebrate the upcoming birth and show the mom your support.
Thank you for reading our article, for more info check out baby shower invitations, baby shower cake ideas and baby shower invitations. Thanks and have a wonderful day!
Tags: baby, baby party, baby shower, baby shower party, caboose baby, mom-to-be, second baby, shower ideas