Even though friends and relatives spoiled you at your baby shower, many people are still inclined to bring a gift when visiting a newborn baby at home for the first time.
Let me share a secret.
Yes, burp cloths and diapers and formula all make nice gifts. They are useful. But let me tell you about the absolute best thing you can get a young family, short of a vacation or a bottle of booze…
FOOD.
That’s right, food. Parents’ nutrition often gets lost in the shuffle of a new baby. As the the sleepless nights add up and the bundle of joy takes over the house, adults spend so much time concentrating on the baby, that they forget to take care of themselves!
That’s where you come in.
Here are some “push present” food ideas that will keep new parents well nourished and out of the kitchen.
Omaha Steaks
They are not paying me to say that! I received a really nice frozen assortment of meats as a gift earlier in the year. It was my first experience with the brand, and I am now a convert. I like the fact that everything arrived frozen solid and that it thaws so well. I’m not sure how they do it, but once you start cooking the meat, it seems to come back to life. The steaks were yummy, the pork cutlets were tender, and the hamburgers were absolutely delicious. The meats were lean. My gift also included stuffed baked potatoes and chocolate lava cakes; a complete meal. Every time we are stumped on what to make or short on time, we open the freezer and find a protein-rich meal waiting.
Custom-Made Basket
Visit your local gourmet deli and put together a basket that has the essentials to make several full meals. Include uncooked pasta, jars of sauce, cans of tuna, crackers, coffee (caffeine!), or anything else that you know the new parents are fans of. If you are short on time or unsure what everyone likes, there are plenty of companies that sell pre-made baskets, including some good ones on Amazon.com.
Fresh Produce
Mom and dad are so concerned with getting the little guy fed, they are unlikely to get to the market to enjoy seasonal fruits and veggies. Whether it’s a local farm stand or the neighborhood supermarket, put together a kit containing salad ingredients and some interesting dressings. Check out these foods that will give the new parents the extra energy they need to power through those sleepless nights.
Other Ideas
Gift cards and certificates to local restaurants and takeouts also come in handy. Be sure to choose things that are local in order to make it as convenient as possible for mom and dad. Also, try to pick places that have ample parking (or deliver) and offer a wide array of offerings.
Other nice “food” push present ideas include arranging for supermarket delivery service, disposable kitchen goods (plates, plastic utensils, etc.), cooking a complete meal for the new family, or even bringing over a frozen lasagna.
Other food ideas for new parents? Please share your thoughts below.