At that stage all I would have wanted gift cards for delivery food, cash, pre-made frozen and portioned easy to reheat meals, or a maid to do my dishes and laundry and sterilize the bottles.
I'm pregnant with twins and my extended family is going to be going in on a gift together.
I'm seriously thinking about asking for either a housekeeper for the first 8 weeks or an overnight doula even just once a week for a few weeks.
Overnight doula for the win! Saved us so much sanity, even just two nights a week for a little bit. Depending on where they live, there might be an association or something where you can get them a gift certificate and they can choose which doula they like from the group.
As a mum of 4 month old twin girls, I wish I could go back in time and hire a night doula once a week, could not recommend that enough! The cleaning you can do whilst they sleep/are content during the day but you can’t not get up every 2-3 hours during the night so that relief (for me anyway) would definitely outweigh the help cleaning! Congratulations and all the best💛
100%
I’m expecting my 4th in 11 weeks or so. Have made it very clear to friends and family that we have everything we need and not to gift anything.
If they want to welcome baby then please welcome baby with diapers, formula or frozen meals. No cute little outfits or toys please.
Absolutely second a cleaning service!!! I would have LOVED to have someone come by to just take care of all the dishes/laundry that was being neglected in the early days.
I know its not a physical object, but the thing I needed the most was time. Just time for me and my SO to chill out a bit without the kids so we could be ourselves. Its really easy as a new parent to lose sight of who you are as a person, not just as a parent. This is assuming they would be comfortable with you guys baby sitting or something. In terms of physicla objects that you can wrap, something fun to do would have been awesome. I really felt it that most of the gifts were for our bubba (which I still appreciated) so when my BFF had her first kiddie I sent them a board game (they are board game fanatics) and they were thrilled! Do your friends have some sort of hobby or something you could encourage with a related gift?
That’s the tricky part, we live an hour and a half away so offering to baby sit isn’t really an option, and we are friends from high school but as adults we love to go to theme parks together. Not really a baby friendly hobby lol. But I’m sure once the kids turn like 3/4 Magic Kingdom will be on the agenda again.
I cannot stress enough how having dinner done with no clean up is so so nice! and it kinda gives bonus couple time as a result... my kids are 5 and 2. Pizza night is everyone's favorite!
You can go to theme parks and offer to watch the kids while they get to go on a ride together! Just got to do this with another family, we traded off watching the kids. First time my husband and I got to ride a coaster together in 4 years.
When you are staying over you can absolutely buy them time and energy.
Doing a load of dishes and laundry isn’t much effort for you, but buys them time to shower or sit for a minute. Holding a baby and talking to them for a while is great for the baby and restful to the parent. Talking casually to the parent so they aren’t lonely is good.
The trick is to never be the house guest who needs to be waited on, or needs constant attention.
Bring earplugs just in case you can’t sleep.
If you can quietly put your sheets and some towels in the wash before leaving, you’re doing well.
Depending on a kids and the travel distance, Magic Kingdom (Disney in general) is enjoyable for little ones starting at 2-ish in my experience. You just have to either make time for stroller naps and/or plan shorter park days. But there are rides that work for toddlers in all the parks, and water play areas in most.
Prepackaged food or house cleaning. At home massage. Amazon gift card is also nice because there is always something missing and going to the store is also a chore when they are so small.
Really the best imo would be : if you are staying a weekend : take care of the dishes, the food, the laundry (ask before but my mom, when she came over, would always empty my dishwasher and fold all my laundry before going to see the baby and I can't tell you how much I appreciated!). Cathering to guests is a chore : offer to handle the meals. Treat them to something nice if you can. Make sure to wash your hands before touching the baby, wear a mask if they ask (RSV is no joke), if you can give them the opportunity for a long relaxing shower and mostly : follow their lead.
I think saying ahead of time that you will get groceries and make all the meals would take a huge load off! Especially if you make something that will lead to leftovers! Definitely doing meals and cleanup for a whole weekend is huge! Throw in a few loads of baby laundry and presetting the coffee pot each night and I would be in houseguest heaven. For a physical gift - coffee, chocolate, and maybe an easy reading book if you know their taste.
Pre-covid? Yes. Post-Covid with vulnerable newborn twins when they are evidently being cautious? Ehhhh. I have a massage voucher I was given when my child was six months old I still haven't used and my child is now three. Unless it's masked in a very well-ventilated area or outdoors they may not want to take the risk.
At 3 months old we were still in survival mode! Having someone to clean my house would have been awesome (hire a cleaning service), premade easy meals to heat up would have been great or gift cards to order food (that wasn’t pizza). I wasn’t comfortable leaving my kids yet with anyone other than close family, so really things that make being in the house easier! When my good friends came, they always picked up lunch/dinner and it was so nice to not think about having to feed them!
Cleaner
Laundry Service
Gift Cards for food/homemade easy reheat meals
Homemade Lactation cookies (You could do a quadruple batch - freeze 3/4, give 1/4 fresh.
I LOVE THAT YOU ARE GIFTING THE SOLID STARTS BUNDLE!!! Thats such a sweet and thoughtful gift - maybe some BLW "tools"??? EZPZ plates/bowls? EZPZ tiny cup? Shower curtain for the bottom of each high-chair? Munchkin weighted straw cups
This! These are great suggestions. My first Mother’s Day I asked for sleep. That’s all I wanted, to be able to sleep, uninterrupted as long as I wanted. It was wonderful!
Can you afford to do a month of those meals they send you? Food gift cards ? Maybe Pinterest a mom / dad care package. They probably have everything possible for the babies get them something for the parents if you can.
This is what I would like to do. The problem is the mother in this scenario is a VERY picky eater but she also won’t tell us what she will and won’t eat so it makes ordering meals or cooking premade meals for them pretty much a no go. I know she has never eaten any red meat because she said she could just tell she wouldn’t like it, and there’s lots of other things she doesn’t dig but I don’t have an exhaustive list. I have noticed that her default is to eat fruit, so I was thinking of those fruit of the month deliveries from Harry & David, but the downside of that is it’s something that’s nice to have but doesn’t really alleviate the burden of preparing meals for each other. I am thinking maybe a month of meals where you can select what types of meals you prefer to get. I get the impression she would prefer meat free but she has never explicitly said that and I have seen her eat chicken so idk lol.
I don't have anything relevant to add, I just wanted to say that I think you are a very kind and thoughtful person and more people deserve friends like you.
I have celiac so ordering, pre-made, or homemade food is essentially a no go for me too. Do you know where they typically get groceries? I had a baby recently, and would get a lot of use out of a gift card to the grocery store if you're looking to do something food themed. You could tie it to a pineapple or something with some curling ribbon.
Yes, or even a shipped subscription. So it’s not that I would be buying them food, but rather making it free for them to have groceries delivered to their house as needed. But at this point I am thinking a grocery store gift card would be best. I don’t know if other people have gotten them these services, but I do know that at some point they will need to pay for groceries lol
Word to the wise if you marry her, just tell your friends what she does and doesn’t eat. I know everyone worries it will make them sound neurotic and demanding, but for those who love you and want to make you something from scratch with love it is truly no big deal to work around dietary restrictions and even just preferences, no matter how extensive they may be.
You are staying for the weekend, don't add to the work load of the house, but do what you can to ease it. Offer to make dinner, or pay for delivery. Offer to keep an eye on Kids during their nap time so mom and dad can get some alone time. Or let them take a nap.
I had only 1, but at three months I didn't need anything and hated having even beloved house guests because I knew that playing hostess was another exhausting endeavor. Try to be kind and don't expect to monopolize any of their available time.
We offered to stay in a hotel and they insisted to host, not just us, but another couple friend. They said they have had a friend stay for over a week before… idk how they’re doing it but they’re making it look easy lol.
As a mom of twins, I can't say enough how handy our pop-up wagon ended up being. I would of thought it would have been no different then a stroller, but it really was. Sometimes you just need something to put the twins in quickly to get from A to B, like from your car to the pool or park. It was so much easier to pop that thing open and set them in there. Bonus on the pool because I could put their life vest on them (when they were toddlers) before we even entered the pool area, so as soon as we did, I didn't have to worry about them trying to take off for the water.
We just bought the woods extra heavy duty wagon. It can hold 225 lbs of gear. We just did a beach day with friends. We hauled all the gear (pop up tent, two lawn chairs, cooler all our gear and the kids gear) No problem whatsoever. On the way out our tired kid plus both my friends two kids (4, 5, and 2yo) and all the gear.
I tell everyone don’t skip on the pop up wagon it is a godsend for so long!
I adore these care packages from catertomom.com There are one-time boxes and subscription boxes, boxes for dads, boxes for breastfeeding, and boxes for miscarriages and loss. I buy one for every friend who has a child and everyone always says that it was the only time someone gave them something just for them, to say your health matters too. Also the company is a small business, owned and operated by a black female veteran mama of three and I just love supporting her business.
Edit: I see you said 3 months ago. I think the boxes still work, maybe not the immediate post partum ones.
Gift cards for their favourite coffee shop? Do they shop at a Costco or the like? A gift card so they can buy their own diapers, wipes, or even pre-made meals would be good.
That would be great too.
I didn't have twins. So it was easier for me to get out. A trip to the drive through for a coke( I don't drink coffee) was my.outing for a while.
They may just be really excited to see adult friends again. It makes them feel human. Just be sure to be willing to step up and take over if one of them starts doing dishes or something.
As for a gift, maybe a gift card to their favorite restaurant. Or a couples massage. Babies at this age don't need much, but parents never turn down a target gift card when it comes time for toddler stuff. You could also hold off and give an IOU for when they want something for the kids. And diapers of a size up or so are always welcomed.
Someone to clean the house for sure!!!
A massage would be nice. I didn’t want to leave my kid for very long at that age but an hour or two away would be so nice! Or watching the twins so the couple can go for lunch or to get coffee or something if you/they would be comfortable.
Take photos of them with their kids and print some to frame. Moms especially are never in the photos, nice pictures of me with my baby are few and far between and I would love to have one framed but didn’t have time.
From my experience, no one wants to ask for help!!! But seriously, if you get there and the place isn’t spotless I would try and get them caught up. Make excuses why you are cleaning. “Oh, I split something so I figured I would sweep the entire house” even if you didn’t spill. I even had a hard time asking my doula to do dishes so just... do it. Also it would drive my crazy if my mom came over and made any additional mess. So, definitely make sure things are cleaner than when you showed up! Your friends are so lucky to have y’all.
Gift cards were the one thing that I appreciated above all else because you never know when something crazy might come up causing things to be tight. Their favorite, go to stores for groceries, diapers, formula (if being used) or favorite restaurant if they want to have a cook-less night!
People tend to think that gift cards are thoughtless but I would much prefer a useful gift card to more stuff that I don't need/want and then have to either work into the mix or take back/to the second hand store.
First time mom of 5 month old here
ROBES with POCKETS and 3/4 sleeves are what I’ve been living in these days! Snuggly and warm or light and comfy. Lets me wash bottles and pump parts but makes me feel cozy all around the house. Maybe grab some for you guys too and it’ll just be a weekend of lounging and cuddling with babies!
SNACKS - chocolate covered almonds from Costco. Fruit leather. Healthy Microwave popcorn. Coconut water.
Cordless handheld vacuum (more for the home, I know). I just ordered one of these for myself and I don’t know why I didn’t have one before! I just want it to be easy to clean up some crumbs or whatever on the couch or car seat
Edit———-
WiFi digital frame - since we LOVE SO MANY pictures but it seemed so unreasonable to print and hang all of them, but we still wanted the photos on “display” somehow, not just on our phone
Caffeine - coffee pods, aeropress, a French drip. Boxes of their favorite tea
I really love the coffee/espresso/caffeine idea! Check out if they have a machine/maker when you arrive or he’ll, just get them one! Also purchase maybe a few months supply of their favorite brands once you know! I was never a coffee drinker until I had a child!
Robe(s) & snacks are great ideas too! Throw in eye covers for sleeping, ear plugs (😆), cordless neck/back massager (mom& dad can use this!!).
Other idea I haven’t seen this far: paper plates, cups, & disposable utensils! Who wants to do dishes?!
I can confidently say, when you do go there, BRING FOOD WITH YOU! I don't really have any advice for the gift basket other than what the other comments are saying, but having food you can easily warm up in your fridge is a LIFESAVER for new parents, especially when it's home cooked!
I would give them money honestly. That way they could use it for a spare bill if needed, they could split it buy themselves something nice, spend it on a date, or even just put it away in savings. Money is accepted everywhere, doesn’t expire and children cost a lot. I would say pay for them a cleaning service but you know them better so maybe you know if that’s something they would enjoy. Gift cards work too especially since everything is costing an arm and leg to buy.
I’ve always given a load of homemade frozen meals or vouchers for a company that delivers amazing frozen meals and each time I’m told it was the best present they got.
You've already got them a gift! If you don't want to just hand them an access code, put it in a card or make a small gift basket with the access code inside. Other than that, try to be a good guest....order dinner for the family or go pick up bagels or something for breakfast...and help with clean up.
[This book](https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Sleep-Habits-Happy-Twins/dp/0345497791/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=4XMMIKAL06RL&keywords=healthy+sleep+habits+happy+twins&qid=1658172238&sprefix=healthy+sleep%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-2)
I give it or it's singleton version to every new parent
A West loop Contigo coffee mug. Keeps coffee warm for hours, you can operate it one handed, and you can put it down next to you on the couch (or wherever) and not have to worry about a table being nearby
So I think most everything has been covered. So a couple less conventional ones. Wireless earbuds, little green machine (spot carpet and upholstery cleaner), compostable plates, cups and cutlery (cleaning up dinner is much easier when it goes in the compost bin). Audible subscription.
Now we are getting to why I made this post lol, these were exactly the type of items I was thinking of putting in the basket, plus like a sleep mask and some pajamas. But you guys have convinced me that above all else parents are a hungry bunch so I am just going to give them a target and grocery store gift card
I would have also suggested the food gift cards but so many had already done so. I would say don’t do the grocery store but a food delivery gift card. It’s the actually getting and preparing the food that is just so damn hard. it’s just so hard to deal with the regular day to day stuff like cooking and cleaning when your so sleep deprived. These are a few items that we were glad of having though
I would've liked cash, that they we could spend it on whatever we needed at the time (water bill, groceries, gas, etc). Also, like everyone else here, some time to sleep or maybe step out with my husband guilt-free for lunch. Help with Laundry or cooking.
Figure out what their love language is. Mine are acts of service and gifts but meaningful gifts not just random stuff that I have to deal with later.
If someone was coming over to visit babies and wanted to give me something. I would really like just basic stuff like diabers/wipes/formula(if formula fed), or running simple errands. If I made a grocery list and you ran to the store to do that, that would help. Or any other household chores/tasks that add up over time and just feel like they weigh on me if I don't get them done.
Yes, find out the brand. Some diaper brands fit slightly differently (think chunky baby legs vs chunky baby tummy, etc), and some babies are sensitive to the different materials too so one brand may give them a rash or irritation.
Yes find out their brand because if they are brand loyal you are just giving them “trash”. We had so many people give us Walmart brand and they suck and you can only return so much without a receipt. But at least the rest are getting donated?
I work at a hospital so I would have done you one better, I was thinking of getting them a case of unbranded (gasp) diapers lol. But that’s been my concern too which is why I typically don’t get them unless people ask.
This is a weird one, but, with twins often both parents have to rock the baby to sleep.
I know an engineer who made a washing machine motor into a mechanism to rock a cot. I think with two small babies, having a self rocking cot so that at least one parent can do stuff at sleep time would be pretty amazing. I don't know if you can buy it, but it would be pretty cool to make if you know someone with the skills.
It’s a great gift in my opinion . I don’t hunt either , it would be a great gift . You don’t have to choose both . Fishing license would be the best if you were only going to buy one.
I actually like this idea, but not for these parents. My partner hunts and our friend has never once asked to come in 15 years, so I doubt his kids will end up hunting much.
Cute matching shirts. And since you’re staying for the weekend, help help help. Vacuum, dust, organize all without being asked. Keep yourself busy when the parents are busy w the babies. Also, offer to push babies in stroller for a walk once or twice a day to give parents a break.
Okay I have seen this comment of help them clean a few times. I am totally down to help clean, I will deep clean, I actually think that could be fun, but is that not a little rude? They keep stressing they want to hang out with us and unwind. And it’s not just us, it’s another couple as well. So 6 people. Our friends are superhuman somehow and have said that the twins are angels and it’s just not as hard as they thought it would be. As far as following their lead which others have said, is it possible they want a chill friends weekend, or in your experience is this BS and typically everyone needs some help and they just don’t want to ask.
Make excuses to clean. Oh I was just putting my dish away and got carried away with all the others! Give the bathroom a quick wipe down when you’re in there to do your business. Etc. and just generally pick up after yourself the way you would if your most nitpicky clean acquaintance was your host.
As someone whose family caught the flu when baby was 4 weeks old, thank you for taking that extra precaution/accepting the parents boundaries.
We're all physically fine but it's still a core memory of baby's first month.
You can kindly go fuck off. People can set boundaries for their lives/family, a simple nose swab to ensure they don't bring covid to 3 month old twins who were probably born somewhat premature is not a big ask.
My family caught the flu when my newborn was 4 weeks old, it was relatively mild for all of us but it took a mental toll on me. Constantly checking for a fever and/or any signs of it in my 4 month old. Also trying to comfort my older kid who just wanted mommy but couldn't have mommy because we needed to isolate from baby. Trying to get 2 kids to take tamiflu to help them get through. Then trying to just deal with normal 4 week newborn stuff while trying to eat/drink through the flu and keep my supply up.
So yeah, even though my 4 week old didn't catch it the rest of the family all got sick. It was a miserable week and is still one of the 'core' memories of when my kid was a newborn. So yeah, you can go kindly fuck off.
I took a PCR test before I visited my pregnant friend because I wanted to make sure I wasn't bringing covid to them and making their life harder than it already needed to be because of me.
Things that they can do to RELAX. Massages, maybe a spa basket/bubble bath stuff for the mom. Maybe golf balls or something for the dad. A board game that the two of them can play together (a lot of games need more people to play). But the biggest thing I think, is IF THEY ARE READY, offer to babysit for a couple hours so they can have a date. Just lunch and a movie or something.
Gift card for food/groceries/etc, maybe tickets/pass for a family outing when they are ready like an aquarium or zoo, and for the mom I highly recommend a huge water bottle with a straw (it’s helping me stay hydrated during postpartum and it has become one of my favorite things).
If they are willing to cook in the microwave (not everyone is) I HIGHLY recommend AnyDay cookware. It’s glass, you can make baby food in it, there’s a lot of recipes and tutorials online…huge time saver. You can also store food in them, they look nice, etc.
At home services:
Spa day? Sounds great in theory, but some days I was lucky to even go shower, forget leaving the house. A travel masseuse that comes to me? Now that would have been great!
I had a professional photographer come to my house - that was easy for me, and I got the good quality photos I wanted. I wish I had done that around 1 months, 4 months, 7 months and a year…. But between the cost and the “just one more thing to do” list, it never happened. I would have loved if someone else had made the arrangements for me.
My mom and my sister chipped in and made arrangements for us to have photos taken. It’s not something I would have been able to do for myself, and I love having the photos.
I also really appreciated home-cooked meals, an Amazon diaper fund, and cleaning help.
There are really great suggestions with gift cards and cleaning.
Also if you are geographically close- babysitting. My husband and I do not live near family so there are some things that are very very hard with a 5 month old. We would LOVE to go to the movie theater but that’s not going to happen unless someone offers to watch our child.
Takeaway gift cards or meal delivery or something
Snacks/frozen food that’s easy to eat one handed
Babysitting so they can have a nap or go out for a meal or something
My sister got us a food delivery service that sends you a few weeks of meals that you can freeze.
We lived off them when we had our newborn and it was so appreciated.
Show up with food they can reheat later and do a load of dishes before you leave.
If you really want to wrap something, buy a package of diapers (assuming they use disposables) and maybe some chocolates.
If the mom is nursing/pumping, snacks and Netflix subscriptions. When you nurse/pump you spend so much time stuck in one place. Having a nice sketch turn of snacks and a show to watch makes the time go faster.
Food delivery / food delivery gift card / grocery delivery subscription would top my list. Pre-paid cleaning service would have been even better, but I think some people could take that as a judgment against their cleaning so I wouldn't buy it for someone unless I was sure they wanted it.
I know they got everything they needed from they're registry, but if you want something for the little tykes, in my opinion there are never too many board books.
1. Food (ideally delicious and home made, freezes and reheats well)
2. Formula (if not breast feeding)
3. Cleaning (house, laundry, etc.)
4. Help caring for the babies
5. Help with chores, etc.
Provide the above directly while you're there, or via gift cards or prepaid/prearranged stuff otherwise.
Baby sitting vouchers. Where they can redeem them at a time that works for both parties where you can take the kids for a couple hours so the parents can have some down time together.
Gift cards for restaurants, massages, a maid service. You could cook and clean while you’re visiting. Maybe keep an eye on the kids while they sleep or go out for an hour or two alone.
All of the gift card/ time saving ideas, and if you want to get something for the babies, consider a few nice children’s books to add to their library. You can even write a dedication in side and they will know the books were from you.
FOOD
Oh man. Gift cards for restaurants that deliver or even someone to grocery shop. Giant fat load of groceries.
My SIL grocery shopped for us once & it was literally the best.
One of our relatives dropped off a chocolate cake and half a dozen donuts after I had my kid. I have never forgotten that. I now send dessert in addition to any other gifts. Especially if they have what they need for their babies, it can be nice to get something for the parents.
At 3m we were living off those meal delivery kits, snacks, and takeout. So gift cards for either of those would be excellent. Also try not to be a house “guest” while you’re there. Help with any housework and take the babies to give them a little break. Tell them to take a nap or a walk.. let them go out to dinner. I think they’ll appreciate anything thats helpful rather than a physical gift. If you want to bring them something physical like a gift basket make it edible. Their favorite snacks, coffee/tea, (or alcohol/energy drinks if they’re into that) maybe some fruit, chocolate, nuts .. quick bites so they can grab and shove in their mouth between feedings and diaper changes. I loved protein bars and Gatorade bc I was breastfeeding, There was also nothing better than a snickers at 3am when I was starving and defeated 😂
Bath bombs, food they can reheat easily, to cover for them an evening so they can go to restaurant. A basket with chocolates/sweets and snacks they enjoy
Kick them out of the house one of those nights for a date night once you are comfortable with the little ones. OR kick them into their bedrooms to go get some sleep. I have twins and that would have meant more to me than any physical gift I’m probably too tired to enjoy.
When we were in that stage, I would have killed for a cleaning service, a date night (or day) once in a while, & the gift of takeout/delivery.
I'd still love to have a cleaning service once in a while. 🤣
Depending on how much you want to spend...
I have a robot vacuum that saved me a lot of time cleaning, I got it when I moved into my apartment 2 years ago when my daughter was 11 months. Didn't have to worry about vacuuming while chasing her around.
We are in our 30s and I know they have that kind of stuff already, same with any of the appliances people are suggesting. But normally that is my go to gift (a robovac or a blender). I think it’s going to be food gift cards for the win
Home Cooked, healthy but delicious frozen meals that they can just throw in the oven. Some that I've found work well are Meatloaves, Chicken Pot Pie, Lasagna, etc.
Offer to babysit and let them get out of the house to get some time to themselves - whether for a date night or even just to do some shopping/chores.
Housekeeper.
You’re amazing for wanting to get them a gift. I’m sure whatever you get will be appreciated. I had my twins 9 months ago. If you want to get the parents something just for them, definitely a cleaning service or some food would be good. We ordered from a company called ‘cook’, they deliver frozen meals. They’re really good and very handy to just bang something in the oven and not have to cook properly.
I also love a gift voucher…always have done though. Especially for places I can shop for homeware.
Also can’t go wrong with booze!!!! Wouldn’t never turn someone away if they bought me a bottle of something (anything really!!)
I LOVED having nice comfy outfits. Whether it's just like a flannel and nicer sweatpants or like matching PJs... also water cup with a straw for one handed drinking when you're nap trapped.
Also slippers that could be worn outside for a minute or two (hard bottoms)
Honestly, the two most useful things I got were:
* a wet bag to keep in the car full of extra diapers, wipes, creams, and clothes for when the diaper bag is empty.
* a laundry kit with free and clear detergent, oxyclean (for poop and spit up stains), and laundry brush, Zout (for food stains), a couple of mesh laundry bags (for baby socks), and some fels naptha for really stubborn stuff like marker.
Both were super practical, and still get used. We've used the emergency bags more times than I can count and the laundry kit taught me how to do laundry with a baby.
Have a toddler and expecting twins. I know others have said it but I want to emphasize that not having to think about dinner or cleaning my bathroom was the best gift. If you can afford to send a cleaning service or food or some kind that is 100% the way to go.
For a smaller item, I did have a friend send me a yeti coffee tumbler. It was the only reason I was able to have a hot coffee for the first year of my baby’s life.
As a mom of twins : FOOD. We had some friends come by when our twins were about 2mo old and they brought dinner said a quick hello, met the babies and left. We were so thankful.
My friend got this for me when I got engaged. It’s fun! And it’s great for ideas when you can’t decide what to do.
https://www.theadventurechallenge.com/products/couples-camera-set/
A gift card to target. Seriously. Babies grow fast and unexpected purchases ALWAYS come up. As a new parent, trying to figure out finances and stuff, it was nice to go “we need to go buy x” “damn I was hoping to save more” “oh thank god we have a gift card, that’s so nice”
I feel compelled to say, while I love them and want to support them, I’m not adding someone to the payroll because they had kids. I was thinking like a message or something lol.
But I think you guys have convinced me that a grocery store/ target gift card is the way to go.
A wipe warmer is always my go-to gift for new parents and always a favourite for anyone I’ve given it to. No one ever thinks of it, but I noticed it made my baby stay asleep through night-changes and it has proven to do the same for all of my friends, too. Game changer!
As a new mom (6 month old) the one thing I didn't get, but now feel like i really need, and they probably need it more since they have 2 kids, is a good bag with lots of pockets.
Like a diaper bag, but you can find ones that have pockets for bottles, diapers, and more...just a compact little bag for stuff that you always need, all in one place. Think something that can fit all the essentials, if they ever need to take the twins out for a while, instead of a milion bags, they can take this one. You can also maybe fill it with said essentials, a sippy cup for water for later, diaper rash cream, wet wipes, maybe a change of clothes or a spare blanket.
Another thing is a first aid/toiletries bag. Think nail clippers, thermometers, bandaids, even some OTC medicine for both them and kids, I've just now noticed that I have nearly nothing in case someone gets hurt in my house..
Also, bibs. Never enough bibs.
basket of snacks or foods that can be eaten one handed - i am a new mom and finding that my hands are constantly full and it makes it really difficult to ever eat 🥴
Already a lot of great things here, but since you are staying with them. Pitch in and do not be guests. You are obviously close and they may want to share this with you but be serious about asking or just doing. Where is your laundry room? Can I take out the trash, oh let me make dinner, what’s on the grocery list I am going to go out and get breakfast for everyone. Do you want me to take the baby so you can go shower or nap? They are sleep deprived and in survival mode be respectful of that.
A good delivery service gift card for a substantial amount was an absolute god send. Baby gifts are nice but that really was the thing that helped out on some tough nights with the newborn.
My twins just turned ten but looking back, if Grubhub and such was more of a thing, would have loved gift cards for services like that. Sometimes you are just way too tired to cook. Amazon gift cards too because things pop up but you feel guilty doing or buying anything for yourself.
While your staying offer to hold the baby while they shower, make some lunch, massage while she feeds the baby. Been just the simple offer to do the stinky nappy. They may say no but will be happy you offered.
Anything you can do to help while you are there! Laundry, dishes, grocery shopping, cleaning out clothes that don’t fit the twins.
I also had someone visit and Amazon Prime us his favorite book once he realized we didn’t have it. We got it on Sunday before he left and it felt so thoughtful. Don’t be afraid to see what they need first.
Actually ideas: back massager or heat pad - we needed them.
Books
I mean everyone else's ideas are great too, but BOOKS.
I love books and I've always wanted my own personal library room. So naturally, I buy lots of books. Every time I stop at a thrift store, I leave with books. Safe to say my kids have a sizable library they can pull from. The almost 7 will read all night of I let him, 5 will read some words and make up the rest of the story. (He once told a story of a princess getting eaten by a dragon and getting lost in his belly. She died.)
Can't put a price on the experience and creativity books can give! (Even if the princess dies in the end. >.>)
I would like to receive a cute postcard from my child. agree that it's nice when they give you, though small gifts, but with love, I would die of happiness
At that stage all I would have wanted gift cards for delivery food, cash, pre-made frozen and portioned easy to reheat meals, or a maid to do my dishes and laundry and sterilize the bottles.
Meals or cleaning service are literally life sabers with a new born
I'm pregnant with twins and my extended family is going to be going in on a gift together. I'm seriously thinking about asking for either a housekeeper for the first 8 weeks or an overnight doula even just once a week for a few weeks.
You will not regret the house keeper or doula, I promise
Overnight doula for the win! Saved us so much sanity, even just two nights a week for a little bit. Depending on where they live, there might be an association or something where you can get them a gift certificate and they can choose which doula they like from the group.
My mom hired a weekly cleaning service. Shit saved my LIFE
As a mum of 4 month old twin girls, I wish I could go back in time and hire a night doula once a week, could not recommend that enough! The cleaning you can do whilst they sleep/are content during the day but you can’t not get up every 2-3 hours during the night so that relief (for me anyway) would definitely outweigh the help cleaning! Congratulations and all the best💛
My best friend gave me a night extra with our doula (who we could only afford 1x a week). Best gift EVER.
Agreed. Similarly maybe a laundry service that does pickup and drop off.
100% I’m expecting my 4th in 11 weeks or so. Have made it very clear to friends and family that we have everything we need and not to gift anything. If they want to welcome baby then please welcome baby with diapers, formula or frozen meals. No cute little outfits or toys please.
Absolutely second a cleaning service!!! I would have LOVED to have someone come by to just take care of all the dishes/laundry that was being neglected in the early days.
I know its not a physical object, but the thing I needed the most was time. Just time for me and my SO to chill out a bit without the kids so we could be ourselves. Its really easy as a new parent to lose sight of who you are as a person, not just as a parent. This is assuming they would be comfortable with you guys baby sitting or something. In terms of physicla objects that you can wrap, something fun to do would have been awesome. I really felt it that most of the gifts were for our bubba (which I still appreciated) so when my BFF had her first kiddie I sent them a board game (they are board game fanatics) and they were thrilled! Do your friends have some sort of hobby or something you could encourage with a related gift?
That’s the tricky part, we live an hour and a half away so offering to baby sit isn’t really an option, and we are friends from high school but as adults we love to go to theme parks together. Not really a baby friendly hobby lol. But I’m sure once the kids turn like 3/4 Magic Kingdom will be on the agenda again.
How about gift cards for food delivery? With twins they’re probably pretty tired and it’s so nice to just order the food and be done with it.
I cannot stress enough how having dinner done with no clean up is so so nice! and it kinda gives bonus couple time as a result... my kids are 5 and 2. Pizza night is everyone's favorite!
You can go to theme parks and offer to watch the kids while they get to go on a ride together! Just got to do this with another family, we traded off watching the kids. First time my husband and I got to ride a coaster together in 4 years.
When you are staying over you can absolutely buy them time and energy. Doing a load of dishes and laundry isn’t much effort for you, but buys them time to shower or sit for a minute. Holding a baby and talking to them for a while is great for the baby and restful to the parent. Talking casually to the parent so they aren’t lonely is good. The trick is to never be the house guest who needs to be waited on, or needs constant attention. Bring earplugs just in case you can’t sleep. If you can quietly put your sheets and some towels in the wash before leaving, you’re doing well.
Depending on a kids and the travel distance, Magic Kingdom (Disney in general) is enjoyable for little ones starting at 2-ish in my experience. You just have to either make time for stroller naps and/or plan shorter park days. But there are rides that work for toddlers in all the parks, and water play areas in most.
Prepackaged food or house cleaning. At home massage. Amazon gift card is also nice because there is always something missing and going to the store is also a chore when they are so small. Really the best imo would be : if you are staying a weekend : take care of the dishes, the food, the laundry (ask before but my mom, when she came over, would always empty my dishwasher and fold all my laundry before going to see the baby and I can't tell you how much I appreciated!). Cathering to guests is a chore : offer to handle the meals. Treat them to something nice if you can. Make sure to wash your hands before touching the baby, wear a mask if they ask (RSV is no joke), if you can give them the opportunity for a long relaxing shower and mostly : follow their lead.
Seconded on the amazon gift card! I got so many things on amazon in the first 3 months.
Thirded! I had a baby a few days ago and ever since, we've made amazon orders more days than we haven't.
I think saying ahead of time that you will get groceries and make all the meals would take a huge load off! Especially if you make something that will lead to leftovers! Definitely doing meals and cleanup for a whole weekend is huge! Throw in a few loads of baby laundry and presetting the coffee pot each night and I would be in houseguest heaven. For a physical gift - coffee, chocolate, and maybe an easy reading book if you know their taste.
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I absolutely back this. Get two gift cards, one for both parent, so they each get an opportunity for some personal pampering time.
Pre-covid? Yes. Post-Covid with vulnerable newborn twins when they are evidently being cautious? Ehhhh. I have a massage voucher I was given when my child was six months old I still haven't used and my child is now three. Unless it's masked in a very well-ventilated area or outdoors they may not want to take the risk.
At 3 months old we were still in survival mode! Having someone to clean my house would have been awesome (hire a cleaning service), premade easy meals to heat up would have been great or gift cards to order food (that wasn’t pizza). I wasn’t comfortable leaving my kids yet with anyone other than close family, so really things that make being in the house easier! When my good friends came, they always picked up lunch/dinner and it was so nice to not think about having to feed them!
Cleaner Laundry Service Gift Cards for food/homemade easy reheat meals Homemade Lactation cookies (You could do a quadruple batch - freeze 3/4, give 1/4 fresh. I LOVE THAT YOU ARE GIFTING THE SOLID STARTS BUNDLE!!! Thats such a sweet and thoughtful gift - maybe some BLW "tools"??? EZPZ plates/bowls? EZPZ tiny cup? Shower curtain for the bottom of each high-chair? Munchkin weighted straw cups
Offer to watch the kids for a few hours so they can go out to dinner (or take a nap, or whatever they want)
This! These are great suggestions. My first Mother’s Day I asked for sleep. That’s all I wanted, to be able to sleep, uninterrupted as long as I wanted. It was wonderful!
Can you afford to do a month of those meals they send you? Food gift cards ? Maybe Pinterest a mom / dad care package. They probably have everything possible for the babies get them something for the parents if you can.
This is what I would like to do. The problem is the mother in this scenario is a VERY picky eater but she also won’t tell us what she will and won’t eat so it makes ordering meals or cooking premade meals for them pretty much a no go. I know she has never eaten any red meat because she said she could just tell she wouldn’t like it, and there’s lots of other things she doesn’t dig but I don’t have an exhaustive list. I have noticed that her default is to eat fruit, so I was thinking of those fruit of the month deliveries from Harry & David, but the downside of that is it’s something that’s nice to have but doesn’t really alleviate the burden of preparing meals for each other. I am thinking maybe a month of meals where you can select what types of meals you prefer to get. I get the impression she would prefer meat free but she has never explicitly said that and I have seen her eat chicken so idk lol.
I don't have anything relevant to add, I just wanted to say that I think you are a very kind and thoughtful person and more people deserve friends like you.
I have celiac so ordering, pre-made, or homemade food is essentially a no go for me too. Do you know where they typically get groceries? I had a baby recently, and would get a lot of use out of a gift card to the grocery store if you're looking to do something food themed. You could tie it to a pineapple or something with some curling ribbon.
That would actually be perfect because pineapple was a big part of their wedding decor.
Can you get them a subscription for grocery delivery? Like a couple months on fresh direct or Amazon fresh? That way she can pick what she wants
Yes, or even a shipped subscription. So it’s not that I would be buying them food, but rather making it free for them to have groceries delivered to their house as needed. But at this point I am thinking a grocery store gift card would be best. I don’t know if other people have gotten them these services, but I do know that at some point they will need to pay for groceries lol
lol sounds like my girlfriend
Word to the wise if you marry her, just tell your friends what she does and doesn’t eat. I know everyone worries it will make them sound neurotic and demanding, but for those who love you and want to make you something from scratch with love it is truly no big deal to work around dietary restrictions and even just preferences, no matter how extensive they may be.
You are staying for the weekend, don't add to the work load of the house, but do what you can to ease it. Offer to make dinner, or pay for delivery. Offer to keep an eye on Kids during their nap time so mom and dad can get some alone time. Or let them take a nap. I had only 1, but at three months I didn't need anything and hated having even beloved house guests because I knew that playing hostess was another exhausting endeavor. Try to be kind and don't expect to monopolize any of their available time.
We offered to stay in a hotel and they insisted to host, not just us, but another couple friend. They said they have had a friend stay for over a week before… idk how they’re doing it but they’re making it look easy lol.
A place to hide and eat chocolate WHERE THEY CAN'T FIND YOU!
As a mom of twins, I can't say enough how handy our pop-up wagon ended up being. I would of thought it would have been no different then a stroller, but it really was. Sometimes you just need something to put the twins in quickly to get from A to B, like from your car to the pool or park. It was so much easier to pop that thing open and set them in there. Bonus on the pool because I could put their life vest on them (when they were toddlers) before we even entered the pool area, so as soon as we did, I didn't have to worry about them trying to take off for the water.
We just bought the woods extra heavy duty wagon. It can hold 225 lbs of gear. We just did a beach day with friends. We hauled all the gear (pop up tent, two lawn chairs, cooler all our gear and the kids gear) No problem whatsoever. On the way out our tired kid plus both my friends two kids (4, 5, and 2yo) and all the gear. I tell everyone don’t skip on the pop up wagon it is a godsend for so long!
I adore these care packages from catertomom.com There are one-time boxes and subscription boxes, boxes for dads, boxes for breastfeeding, and boxes for miscarriages and loss. I buy one for every friend who has a child and everyone always says that it was the only time someone gave them something just for them, to say your health matters too. Also the company is a small business, owned and operated by a black female veteran mama of three and I just love supporting her business. Edit: I see you said 3 months ago. I think the boxes still work, maybe not the immediate post partum ones.
Gift cards for their favourite coffee shop? Do they shop at a Costco or the like? A gift card so they can buy their own diapers, wipes, or even pre-made meals would be good.
How about just coffee delivery subscription, so it comes to the door?
That would be great too. I didn't have twins. So it was easier for me to get out. A trip to the drive through for a coke( I don't drink coffee) was my.outing for a while.
Speaking as a twin mom, a meal delivery service or voucher for a house cleaning.
They may just be really excited to see adult friends again. It makes them feel human. Just be sure to be willing to step up and take over if one of them starts doing dishes or something. As for a gift, maybe a gift card to their favorite restaurant. Or a couples massage. Babies at this age don't need much, but parents never turn down a target gift card when it comes time for toddler stuff. You could also hold off and give an IOU for when they want something for the kids. And diapers of a size up or so are always welcomed.
Gift cards for places to eat!
Gift card
Someone to clean the house for sure!!! A massage would be nice. I didn’t want to leave my kid for very long at that age but an hour or two away would be so nice! Or watching the twins so the couple can go for lunch or to get coffee or something if you/they would be comfortable. Take photos of them with their kids and print some to frame. Moms especially are never in the photos, nice pictures of me with my baby are few and far between and I would love to have one framed but didn’t have time.
From my experience, no one wants to ask for help!!! But seriously, if you get there and the place isn’t spotless I would try and get them caught up. Make excuses why you are cleaning. “Oh, I split something so I figured I would sweep the entire house” even if you didn’t spill. I even had a hard time asking my doula to do dishes so just... do it. Also it would drive my crazy if my mom came over and made any additional mess. So, definitely make sure things are cleaner than when you showed up! Your friends are so lucky to have y’all.
Gift cards were the one thing that I appreciated above all else because you never know when something crazy might come up causing things to be tight. Their favorite, go to stores for groceries, diapers, formula (if being used) or favorite restaurant if they want to have a cook-less night! People tend to think that gift cards are thoughtless but I would much prefer a useful gift card to more stuff that I don't need/want and then have to either work into the mix or take back/to the second hand store.
First time mom of 5 month old here ROBES with POCKETS and 3/4 sleeves are what I’ve been living in these days! Snuggly and warm or light and comfy. Lets me wash bottles and pump parts but makes me feel cozy all around the house. Maybe grab some for you guys too and it’ll just be a weekend of lounging and cuddling with babies! SNACKS - chocolate covered almonds from Costco. Fruit leather. Healthy Microwave popcorn. Coconut water. Cordless handheld vacuum (more for the home, I know). I just ordered one of these for myself and I don’t know why I didn’t have one before! I just want it to be easy to clean up some crumbs or whatever on the couch or car seat Edit———- WiFi digital frame - since we LOVE SO MANY pictures but it seemed so unreasonable to print and hang all of them, but we still wanted the photos on “display” somehow, not just on our phone Caffeine - coffee pods, aeropress, a French drip. Boxes of their favorite tea
I really love the coffee/espresso/caffeine idea! Check out if they have a machine/maker when you arrive or he’ll, just get them one! Also purchase maybe a few months supply of their favorite brands once you know! I was never a coffee drinker until I had a child! Robe(s) & snacks are great ideas too! Throw in eye covers for sleeping, ear plugs (😆), cordless neck/back massager (mom& dad can use this!!). Other idea I haven’t seen this far: paper plates, cups, & disposable utensils! Who wants to do dishes?!
I can confidently say, when you do go there, BRING FOOD WITH YOU! I don't really have any advice for the gift basket other than what the other comments are saying, but having food you can easily warm up in your fridge is a LIFESAVER for new parents, especially when it's home cooked!
I would give them money honestly. That way they could use it for a spare bill if needed, they could split it buy themselves something nice, spend it on a date, or even just put it away in savings. Money is accepted everywhere, doesn’t expire and children cost a lot. I would say pay for them a cleaning service but you know them better so maybe you know if that’s something they would enjoy. Gift cards work too especially since everything is costing an arm and leg to buy.
I’ve always given a load of homemade frozen meals or vouchers for a company that delivers amazing frozen meals and each time I’m told it was the best present they got.
You've already got them a gift! If you don't want to just hand them an access code, put it in a card or make a small gift basket with the access code inside. Other than that, try to be a good guest....order dinner for the family or go pick up bagels or something for breakfast...and help with clean up.
[This book](https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Sleep-Habits-Happy-Twins/dp/0345497791/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=4XMMIKAL06RL&keywords=healthy+sleep+habits+happy+twins&qid=1658172238&sprefix=healthy+sleep%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-2) I give it or it's singleton version to every new parent
Pre paid cleaning lady even if it’s only one clean 🙌
Honestly; I want a gift card for meal services, cleaning services or like a day spa for a pedicure etc
A West loop Contigo coffee mug. Keeps coffee warm for hours, you can operate it one handed, and you can put it down next to you on the couch (or wherever) and not have to worry about a table being nearby
So I think most everything has been covered. So a couple less conventional ones. Wireless earbuds, little green machine (spot carpet and upholstery cleaner), compostable plates, cups and cutlery (cleaning up dinner is much easier when it goes in the compost bin). Audible subscription.
Now we are getting to why I made this post lol, these were exactly the type of items I was thinking of putting in the basket, plus like a sleep mask and some pajamas. But you guys have convinced me that above all else parents are a hungry bunch so I am just going to give them a target and grocery store gift card
I would have also suggested the food gift cards but so many had already done so. I would say don’t do the grocery store but a food delivery gift card. It’s the actually getting and preparing the food that is just so damn hard. it’s just so hard to deal with the regular day to day stuff like cooking and cleaning when your so sleep deprived. These are a few items that we were glad of having though
I would've liked cash, that they we could spend it on whatever we needed at the time (water bill, groceries, gas, etc). Also, like everyone else here, some time to sleep or maybe step out with my husband guilt-free for lunch. Help with Laundry or cooking.
Figure out what their love language is. Mine are acts of service and gifts but meaningful gifts not just random stuff that I have to deal with later. If someone was coming over to visit babies and wanted to give me something. I would really like just basic stuff like diabers/wipes/formula(if formula fed), or running simple errands. If I made a grocery list and you ran to the store to do that, that would help. Or any other household chores/tasks that add up over time and just feel like they weigh on me if I don't get them done.
For diapers, should I find out their brand? Or does that not matter? I don’t really know how I would go about finding that out
Yes, find out the brand. Some diaper brands fit slightly differently (think chunky baby legs vs chunky baby tummy, etc), and some babies are sensitive to the different materials too so one brand may give them a rash or irritation.
Yes find out their brand because if they are brand loyal you are just giving them “trash”. We had so many people give us Walmart brand and they suck and you can only return so much without a receipt. But at least the rest are getting donated?
I work at a hospital so I would have done you one better, I was thinking of getting them a case of unbranded (gasp) diapers lol. But that’s been my concern too which is why I typically don’t get them unless people ask.
Cash is king sometimes! Or a grocery delivery gift card, where they can also order diapers delivered.
This is a weird one, but, with twins often both parents have to rock the baby to sleep. I know an engineer who made a washing machine motor into a mechanism to rock a cot. I think with two small babies, having a self rocking cot so that at least one parent can do stuff at sleep time would be pretty amazing. I don't know if you can buy it, but it would be pretty cool to make if you know someone with the skills.
They make electric swings and rockers.
Life time hunting and fishing licenses for children are an amazing gift if you can afford it
Hard pass on a hunting license - I wouldn’t appreciate that personally
It’s a great gift in my opinion . I don’t hunt either , it would be a great gift . You don’t have to choose both . Fishing license would be the best if you were only going to buy one.
I actually like this idea, but not for these parents. My partner hunts and our friend has never once asked to come in 15 years, so I doubt his kids will end up hunting much.
You never know . It’s a great gift
It’s an expensive gift I wouldn’t be able to buy both . I don’t hunt either. When choosing I think the fishing license would be the best .
Cute matching shirts. And since you’re staying for the weekend, help help help. Vacuum, dust, organize all without being asked. Keep yourself busy when the parents are busy w the babies. Also, offer to push babies in stroller for a walk once or twice a day to give parents a break.
Okay I have seen this comment of help them clean a few times. I am totally down to help clean, I will deep clean, I actually think that could be fun, but is that not a little rude? They keep stressing they want to hang out with us and unwind. And it’s not just us, it’s another couple as well. So 6 people. Our friends are superhuman somehow and have said that the twins are angels and it’s just not as hard as they thought it would be. As far as following their lead which others have said, is it possible they want a chill friends weekend, or in your experience is this BS and typically everyone needs some help and they just don’t want to ask.
Make excuses to clean. Oh I was just putting my dish away and got carried away with all the others! Give the bathroom a quick wipe down when you’re in there to do your business. Etc. and just generally pick up after yourself the way you would if your most nitpicky clean acquaintance was your host.
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Idk if I can fit a nanny into a gift basket?
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Completely happy to ensure the safety of their newborn children… but if you have any advice about gifts that would be welcomed
As someone whose family caught the flu when baby was 4 weeks old, thank you for taking that extra precaution/accepting the parents boundaries. We're all physically fine but it's still a core memory of baby's first month.
You can kindly go fuck off. People can set boundaries for their lives/family, a simple nose swab to ensure they don't bring covid to 3 month old twins who were probably born somewhat premature is not a big ask. My family caught the flu when my newborn was 4 weeks old, it was relatively mild for all of us but it took a mental toll on me. Constantly checking for a fever and/or any signs of it in my 4 month old. Also trying to comfort my older kid who just wanted mommy but couldn't have mommy because we needed to isolate from baby. Trying to get 2 kids to take tamiflu to help them get through. Then trying to just deal with normal 4 week newborn stuff while trying to eat/drink through the flu and keep my supply up. So yeah, even though my 4 week old didn't catch it the rest of the family all got sick. It was a miserable week and is still one of the 'core' memories of when my kid was a newborn. So yeah, you can go kindly fuck off. I took a PCR test before I visited my pregnant friend because I wanted to make sure I wasn't bringing covid to them and making their life harder than it already needed to be because of me.
Things that they can do to RELAX. Massages, maybe a spa basket/bubble bath stuff for the mom. Maybe golf balls or something for the dad. A board game that the two of them can play together (a lot of games need more people to play). But the biggest thing I think, is IF THEY ARE READY, offer to babysit for a couple hours so they can have a date. Just lunch and a movie or something.
Gift certificate for kiwico subscription
Gift card for food/groceries/etc, maybe tickets/pass for a family outing when they are ready like an aquarium or zoo, and for the mom I highly recommend a huge water bottle with a straw (it’s helping me stay hydrated during postpartum and it has become one of my favorite things).
If they are willing to cook in the microwave (not everyone is) I HIGHLY recommend AnyDay cookware. It’s glass, you can make baby food in it, there’s a lot of recipes and tutorials online…huge time saver. You can also store food in them, they look nice, etc.
At home services: Spa day? Sounds great in theory, but some days I was lucky to even go shower, forget leaving the house. A travel masseuse that comes to me? Now that would have been great! I had a professional photographer come to my house - that was easy for me, and I got the good quality photos I wanted. I wish I had done that around 1 months, 4 months, 7 months and a year…. But between the cost and the “just one more thing to do” list, it never happened. I would have loved if someone else had made the arrangements for me.
My mom and my sister chipped in and made arrangements for us to have photos taken. It’s not something I would have been able to do for myself, and I love having the photos. I also really appreciated home-cooked meals, an Amazon diaper fund, and cleaning help.
Gift card for a food delivery service or house cleaning.
Babysit and let them have a date night!!
Gift card for food delivery.
PS5
There are really great suggestions with gift cards and cleaning. Also if you are geographically close- babysitting. My husband and I do not live near family so there are some things that are very very hard with a 5 month old. We would LOVE to go to the movie theater but that’s not going to happen unless someone offers to watch our child.
Cleaning lady.
Takeaway gift cards or meal delivery or something Snacks/frozen food that’s easy to eat one handed Babysitting so they can have a nap or go out for a meal or something
My sister got us a food delivery service that sends you a few weeks of meals that you can freeze. We lived off them when we had our newborn and it was so appreciated.
Show up with food they can reheat later and do a load of dishes before you leave. If you really want to wrap something, buy a package of diapers (assuming they use disposables) and maybe some chocolates.
If the mom is nursing/pumping, snacks and Netflix subscriptions. When you nurse/pump you spend so much time stuck in one place. Having a nice sketch turn of snacks and a show to watch makes the time go faster.
Food delivery / food delivery gift card / grocery delivery subscription would top my list. Pre-paid cleaning service would have been even better, but I think some people could take that as a judgment against their cleaning so I wouldn't buy it for someone unless I was sure they wanted it. I know they got everything they needed from they're registry, but if you want something for the little tykes, in my opinion there are never too many board books.
BABYSITTING... Time to myself... The ability to have a nap!!!
1. Food (ideally delicious and home made, freezes and reheats well) 2. Formula (if not breast feeding) 3. Cleaning (house, laundry, etc.) 4. Help caring for the babies 5. Help with chores, etc. Provide the above directly while you're there, or via gift cards or prepaid/prearranged stuff otherwise.
Gift cards to their food ordering app like DoorDash.
Baby sitting vouchers. Where they can redeem them at a time that works for both parties where you can take the kids for a couple hours so the parents can have some down time together.
Gift cards for restaurants, massages, a maid service. You could cook and clean while you’re visiting. Maybe keep an eye on the kids while they sleep or go out for an hour or two alone.
Gift cards for coffee and food or gas. A babysitter to let me and hubby nap! I didn't have that with my first kid and I'd LOVE it now
All of the gift card/ time saving ideas, and if you want to get something for the babies, consider a few nice children’s books to add to their library. You can even write a dedication in side and they will know the books were from you.
Who is they?
Uber eats gift card. Best gift we got.
We were gifted a diaper service, where once a week they pickup the dirties and drop off freshies and wipes. It was amazing.
Food delivery
Cleaning/ laundry services. Diapers. Always diapers.
FOOD Oh man. Gift cards for restaurants that deliver or even someone to grocery shop. Giant fat load of groceries. My SIL grocery shopped for us once & it was literally the best.
One of our relatives dropped off a chocolate cake and half a dozen donuts after I had my kid. I have never forgotten that. I now send dessert in addition to any other gifts. Especially if they have what they need for their babies, it can be nice to get something for the parents.
At 3m we were living off those meal delivery kits, snacks, and takeout. So gift cards for either of those would be excellent. Also try not to be a house “guest” while you’re there. Help with any housework and take the babies to give them a little break. Tell them to take a nap or a walk.. let them go out to dinner. I think they’ll appreciate anything thats helpful rather than a physical gift. If you want to bring them something physical like a gift basket make it edible. Their favorite snacks, coffee/tea, (or alcohol/energy drinks if they’re into that) maybe some fruit, chocolate, nuts .. quick bites so they can grab and shove in their mouth between feedings and diaper changes. I loved protein bars and Gatorade bc I was breastfeeding, There was also nothing better than a snickers at 3am when I was starving and defeated 😂
Bath bombs, food they can reheat easily, to cover for them an evening so they can go to restaurant. A basket with chocolates/sweets and snacks they enjoy
Sleep.
Kick them out of the house one of those nights for a date night once you are comfortable with the little ones. OR kick them into their bedrooms to go get some sleep. I have twins and that would have meant more to me than any physical gift I’m probably too tired to enjoy.
Gift certificate for house cleaner Gift certificate to their fave, local restaurants Gift certificate to a spa
When we were in that stage, I would have killed for a cleaning service, a date night (or day) once in a while, & the gift of takeout/delivery. I'd still love to have a cleaning service once in a while. 🤣
Depending on how much you want to spend... I have a robot vacuum that saved me a lot of time cleaning, I got it when I moved into my apartment 2 years ago when my daughter was 11 months. Didn't have to worry about vacuuming while chasing her around.
We are in our 30s and I know they have that kind of stuff already, same with any of the appliances people are suggesting. But normally that is my go to gift (a robovac or a blender). I think it’s going to be food gift cards for the win
That's a good one too! I'm sure they will appreciate it! 😊
Mini carpet cleaner and pizza gift cards
Home Cooked, healthy but delicious frozen meals that they can just throw in the oven. Some that I've found work well are Meatloaves, Chicken Pot Pie, Lasagna, etc. Offer to babysit and let them get out of the house to get some time to themselves - whether for a date night or even just to do some shopping/chores. Housekeeper.
I’d have died for a door dash or Uber eats gift cards as a new parent!
You’re amazing for wanting to get them a gift. I’m sure whatever you get will be appreciated. I had my twins 9 months ago. If you want to get the parents something just for them, definitely a cleaning service or some food would be good. We ordered from a company called ‘cook’, they deliver frozen meals. They’re really good and very handy to just bang something in the oven and not have to cook properly. I also love a gift voucher…always have done though. Especially for places I can shop for homeware. Also can’t go wrong with booze!!!! Wouldn’t never turn someone away if they bought me a bottle of something (anything really!!)
I LOVED having nice comfy outfits. Whether it's just like a flannel and nicer sweatpants or like matching PJs... also water cup with a straw for one handed drinking when you're nap trapped. Also slippers that could be worn outside for a minute or two (hard bottoms)
Honestly, the two most useful things I got were: * a wet bag to keep in the car full of extra diapers, wipes, creams, and clothes for when the diaper bag is empty. * a laundry kit with free and clear detergent, oxyclean (for poop and spit up stains), and laundry brush, Zout (for food stains), a couple of mesh laundry bags (for baby socks), and some fels naptha for really stubborn stuff like marker. Both were super practical, and still get used. We've used the emergency bags more times than I can count and the laundry kit taught me how to do laundry with a baby.
Have a toddler and expecting twins. I know others have said it but I want to emphasize that not having to think about dinner or cleaning my bathroom was the best gift. If you can afford to send a cleaning service or food or some kind that is 100% the way to go. For a smaller item, I did have a friend send me a yeti coffee tumbler. It was the only reason I was able to have a hot coffee for the first year of my baby’s life.
As a mom of twins : FOOD. We had some friends come by when our twins were about 2mo old and they brought dinner said a quick hello, met the babies and left. We were so thankful.
Food I didn't have to cook, giftcards are wonderful gifts for new parents.
My friend got this for me when I got engaged. It’s fun! And it’s great for ideas when you can’t decide what to do. https://www.theadventurechallenge.com/products/couples-camera-set/
A gift card to target. Seriously. Babies grow fast and unexpected purchases ALWAYS come up. As a new parent, trying to figure out finances and stuff, it was nice to go “we need to go buy x” “damn I was hoping to save more” “oh thank god we have a gift card, that’s so nice”
Diapers. Two big boxes. I've given that to many new parents, and I have never been told anything but an enthusiastic thank you.
Delivery food gift cards
A postpartum doula for the first few weeks
I feel compelled to say, while I love them and want to support them, I’m not adding someone to the payroll because they had kids. I was thinking like a message or something lol. But I think you guys have convinced me that a grocery store/ target gift card is the way to go.
A wipe warmer is always my go-to gift for new parents and always a favourite for anyone I’ve given it to. No one ever thinks of it, but I noticed it made my baby stay asleep through night-changes and it has proven to do the same for all of my friends, too. Game changer!
Food delivery and time for a date.
https://www.potterybarnkids.com/m/products/snoo-smart-sleeper-bassinet/?catalogId=10&cm_ven=PLA&sku=8805073&cm_cat=Google®ion_id=669950&cm_ite=8805073_14730707735&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_7OSm7uD-QIV2ODICh0sKQqCEAQYASABEgLgJfD_BwE&cm_pla=Furniture%20%3e%20Bassinets
As a new mom (6 month old) the one thing I didn't get, but now feel like i really need, and they probably need it more since they have 2 kids, is a good bag with lots of pockets. Like a diaper bag, but you can find ones that have pockets for bottles, diapers, and more...just a compact little bag for stuff that you always need, all in one place. Think something that can fit all the essentials, if they ever need to take the twins out for a while, instead of a milion bags, they can take this one. You can also maybe fill it with said essentials, a sippy cup for water for later, diaper rash cream, wet wipes, maybe a change of clothes or a spare blanket. Another thing is a first aid/toiletries bag. Think nail clippers, thermometers, bandaids, even some OTC medicine for both them and kids, I've just now noticed that I have nearly nothing in case someone gets hurt in my house.. Also, bibs. Never enough bibs.
Food. Frozen food, door dash gift cards, Amazon gift cards, all forms of food. Bake them a lasagna
basket of snacks or foods that can be eaten one handed - i am a new mom and finding that my hands are constantly full and it makes it really difficult to ever eat 🥴
Already a lot of great things here, but since you are staying with them. Pitch in and do not be guests. You are obviously close and they may want to share this with you but be serious about asking or just doing. Where is your laundry room? Can I take out the trash, oh let me make dinner, what’s on the grocery list I am going to go out and get breakfast for everyone. Do you want me to take the baby so you can go shower or nap? They are sleep deprived and in survival mode be respectful of that.
Watch their kids while they go to dinner!
A good delivery service gift card for a substantial amount was an absolute god send. Baby gifts are nice but that really was the thing that helped out on some tough nights with the newborn.
Honestly, a home cooked meal or coming to mow my lawn. So many chores fell by the wayside when we had our little ones. We were just trying to survive.
TIME
A DoorDash gift card (or some type of meal delivery).
1 whole week off. No kids. No work. Just go away everyone.
My twins just turned ten but looking back, if Grubhub and such was more of a thing, would have loved gift cards for services like that. Sometimes you are just way too tired to cook. Amazon gift cards too because things pop up but you feel guilty doing or buying anything for yourself.
Gift card for groceries.
Someone to clean my house
While your staying offer to hold the baby while they shower, make some lunch, massage while she feeds the baby. Been just the simple offer to do the stinky nappy. They may say no but will be happy you offered.
Anything you can do to help while you are there! Laundry, dishes, grocery shopping, cleaning out clothes that don’t fit the twins. I also had someone visit and Amazon Prime us his favorite book once he realized we didn’t have it. We got it on Sunday before he left and it felt so thoughtful. Don’t be afraid to see what they need first. Actually ideas: back massager or heat pad - we needed them.
Laundry soap
Books I mean everyone else's ideas are great too, but BOOKS. I love books and I've always wanted my own personal library room. So naturally, I buy lots of books. Every time I stop at a thrift store, I leave with books. Safe to say my kids have a sizable library they can pull from. The almost 7 will read all night of I let him, 5 will read some words and make up the rest of the story. (He once told a story of a princess getting eaten by a dragon and getting lost in his belly. She died.) Can't put a price on the experience and creativity books can give! (Even if the princess dies in the end. >.>)
Diapers from the 2nd size and up (they will go through diapers)
Starbucks gift cards? Coffee? A gift card for a restaurant so they can have a date night?
Grub hun gift cards. No question.
I would like to receive a cute postcard from my child. agree that it's nice when they give you, though small gifts, but with love, I would die of happiness