There must have been a blackout nine months ago because babies are popping out like crazy lately. Now we all know babies are expensive, only not just for their parents. Everything is cute in miniature, so picking out gifts can be dangerous to the pocketbook. Read on for some tips on spoiling the little tykes without having to subsist on ramen afterward.
As with many money saving strategies, time is your most valuable tool. Though baby clothes can be shockingly expensive, they do go on sale. Many big chains like Old Navy, Gap, and Children's Place have baby divisions and do serious end-of-season reductions. Browse a few stores to get a sense of average prices. Then, swoop in and stock up when prices get slashed. Just 'cause the clothes are expensive today doesn't mean they will be tomorrow. Those cute little outfits look even better 50% off.
Tip: You may not know whether your gift is for a little he-man or wonder-woman, but yellow and green are considered neutrals. Think ducks, frogs, and teddy bears instead of ballerinas and monster trucks. Though it may be a great conditioning experiment to gift blue onesies to a little girl, it's still something of a faux pas. Go easy, new parents have enough stress.
Instead of focusing on onesies and booties, consider a gift that will still fit for a few more years. There are fantastic children's books out there. Don't worry about being too age appropriate. If it's right for a kid under 5, it's fine to gift at birth. Go have fun in the children's section of a bookstore, particularly one with a couch. Read some books, look at some pictures, pick out whichever one you like best. Most kids' books will run you under $10 and provide years of enjoyment. Pretty good return.
If neither of those options seems appealing, go for comfort. Stuffed elephant, cuddle blanket…if it's soft, it's right. Once again, look for sales. All sorts of stores have cuddly options so look around your usual spots for a good deal on a squooshy item.
And, if you really have zero dollars to spend on the new package of joy, break out the crayons. Color a pretty gift certificate for 2 hours of babysitting. New parents need naps. And that, you can afford.
When you drop off the gift, don't forget to compliment the baby. It's been nine months of build-up, pat those parents on the back.
