Baby Registry Tips

A common thread among most parents who create baby registries is that they are first-time parents. In many communities, baby showers are typically thrown for the first addition, but not necessarily a second or third. Also, parents with older children either don’t need or want to create a registry. First-time parents must rely on the opinions of others or use their own judgment when choosing items to place on a baby registry. Following are two important tips to keep in mind.

Ask for Help Creating a Baby Registry

First-time parents may not know what items to put on the registry unless they have prior experience with babies. Even if they know what types of items to put on the registry, there may be several brands of any one item from which to choose. Asking for help from a trusted friend or family member might be a good idea. Someone familiar with baby products and with an opinion about different brands will be able to advise a new parent on which specific baby items to place on a registry. When all else fails, a store associate may be able to help; however, his or her advice may not be sincere and will certainly not be given with knowledge of a parent’s personal tastes and preferences.

Strike a Balance between Fun and Necessity

Expectant parents will want to place newborn necessities on registry, but placing some fun items on the list as well will give baby shower guests many options. Some shower guests are practical gift givers and prefer to give baby care items like lotion, bath gel, and diapers. However, other shower guests will prefer to give fun gifts like toys or musical mobiles or waterfalls. Parents who strike a balance between newborn care items and fun gifts will be able to accommodate the preferences of most, if not all, baby shower guests.

Newborn necessities include anything that a baby needs to sleep or stay properly clothed and fed. Baby registry items that fall under the necessity category are diapers, wipes, clothes, a car seat, and a first aid kit.

Items that aren’t necessarily required for newborn care fall into the “fun” category. Shower guests like to buy these kinds of items because they are cute and sometimes because they figure someone else will purchase the necessities. Fun baby gifts include colorful toys, musical CDs, or a play gym. Although these items aren’t absolutely necessary for baby care, they are nice conveniences that make taking care of a newborn baby just a little easier.

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