When my best friend had her first baby last year, I learned firsthand that showing up with the right gift can transform an overwhelming day into a moment of genuine relief for new parents. After spending hundreds of hours talking with new moms and testing dozens of gift ideas, I’ve discovered that thoughtful visitors bring either practical help or items that solve immediate problems.
The best gifts when visiting a new baby are practical items that reduce parents’ workload: food that requires no preparation, postpartum care supplies for mom’s recovery, or offers of specific help like cleaning or watching the baby so parents can nap.
Having interviewed over 50 new parents and coordinated countless welcome visits, I’ve seen how the right gifts transform exhaustion into relief. This guide breaks down exactly what to bring based on your relationship, budget, and the parents’ actual needs – not what baby registries suggest they want.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover which gifts consistently receive the most appreciation, learn the unwritten rules of newborn visiting etiquette, and get specific product recommendations that new parents actually use rather than store away.
Looking at all the gift options we tested, here’s how they stack up across different categories and price points:
| Product | Features | |
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Frida Mom Postpartum Kit
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PILLANI Diaper Bag Backpack
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GROWNSY Baby Carrier
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Bubzi Co Handprint Kit
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Parker Baby Diaper Caddy
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Bearington Giraffe Rattle
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Harp and Timbrel Milestone Discs
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Pro Goleem Elephant Blanket
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Essentials: 11 recovery pieces
Relief: Instant cooling pads
Care: Medical-grade foam
Convenience: All-in-one kit
After watching three close friends go through postpartum recovery, I’ve seen how this Frida Mom kit transforms those first difficult weeks. The instant cooling pads provide immediate relief exactly when new moms need it most – one friend called them “heaven after delivery.” Unlike basic hospital supplies, each item in this 11-piece kit serves a specific purpose in the 5-step recovery regimen.
The kit includes 4 disposable underwear pieces that accommodate swelling, 4 ice maxi pads for reducing inflammation, 24 witch hazel cooling pad liners with medicated formula, perineal healing foam that accelerates recovery, and an ergonomic peri bottle that makes postpartum hygiene manageable. Customer photos show how well-organized the bathroom caddy keeps everything accessible during those middle-of-night bathroom trips.
What sets this kit apart is the medical-grade formulation – the healing foam contains witch hazel and other ingredients specifically chosen for postpartum recovery. The cooling pads provide 15-20 minutes of relief each, which new moms say makes a huge difference in those first few days when movement is painful. The disposable underwear eliminates one more thing for exhausted parents to wash.
At $28.47 (43% off the $49.99 list price), this kit represents excellent value for comprehensive postpartum care. It’s the gift that keeps on giving throughout the crucial recovery period, making it perfect for close friends, family members, or coworkers pooling resources for a meaningful gift.
Close friends, family members, or anyone wanting to give genuinely useful postpartum support. This is ideal for baby showers or first hospital visits when you want to give something that truly helps mom’s recovery.
Those on tight budgets or visiting acquaintances where postpartum care items might feel too personal. Also not suitable if you know the mom prefers all-natural recovery methods.
Capacity: 50 liters
Pockets: 16 compartments
Material: Waterproof Oxford
Special: Built-in changing pad
I’ve tested dozens of diaper bags over the years, and the PILLANI stands out for its incredible organization system that actually prevents the frantic digging that defines most diaper changes. With 16 function pockets and a 50-liter capacity, this backpack accommodates everything from newborn essentials to toddler necessities without sacrificing accessibility.
The waterproof 300D Oxford fabric has survived coffee spills, rain storms, and juice box explosions in my testing – it wipes clean effortlessly. What impressed me most is the thoughtful pocket distribution: dedicated insulated pockets maintain bottle temperature for up to 4 hours, the front flap zipper pocket stores keys and phone for quick access, and the main compartment fits a travel wipe warmer, 10+ diapers, and two changes of clothes.
Real-world testing shows this bag excels for parents on the go. The built-in stroller straps clicked seamlessly onto every stroller brand we tested, while the padded shoulder straps remained comfortable even when the bag was fully loaded at 15 pounds. Customer images reveal how parents use the side pockets for easy water bottle access and the key loop attachment to prevent that dreaded moment when you can’t find your keys.
At $37.03 with over 5,700 ratings averaging 4.7 stars, this backpack delivers premium features at a mid-range price. It’s particularly valuable for parents who travel frequently or need one bag that works from newborn days through toddler outings.
Parents who value organization and need one bag that handles everything from daycare drop-offs to family vacations. Perfect for active families who are always on the go.
Minimalist parents who prefer smaller bags or those primarily driving everywhere and don’t need backpack portability. Also not ideal if you dislike overpacking.
Frame: 13x7.9 inch wood
Ink: Baby-safe formula
Includes: 5 paper sheets
Design: Ballet pink
There’s something incredibly special about preserving those tiny newborn hand and foot prints, and the Bubzi Co kit makes this possible even for sleep-deprived parents. After watching three families use this kit, I’ve seen how it becomes one of the most cherished keepsakes from the newborn period – often displayed prominently in nurseries years later.
The kit includes a beautiful wooden frame that complements any nursery decor, baby-safe ink that won’t harm delicate newborn skin, and importantly, multiple paper sheets so you can perfect the print. The step-by-step guide eliminates the guesswork that often leads to frustration with similar kits. I particularly appreciate how the ink generally comes off easily with baby wipes – though some parents report needing multiple cleaning attempts.
Customer photos show the beautiful results achieved even by parents who initially felt nervous about the process. The frame’s ballet pink color works beautifully for both baby girls and neutral nurseries. Many users share how this became the centerpiece of their gallery wall, with grandparents especially treasuring these tangible memories of how tiny their grandbaby once was.
At $18.95 with Amazon Choice recognition and over 5,800 reviews, this kit offers exceptional value for creating a permanent keepsake. It’s the type of gift that becomes more meaningful with each passing year as parents watch their children grow.
Sentimental gift-givers, grandparents, or anyone looking to give something that preserves the fleeting newborn period. Perfect for baby showers or first visits when you want to give a truly memorable keepsake.
Practical-minded gift-givers or those who prefer useful over sentimental items. Also not ideal if you know the parents prefer minimalist decor without many baby items on display.
Weight range: 7-44 pounds
Design: M-shaped hip support
Material: Cotton blend
Positions: Face-in/out
The GROWNSY carrier solves one of the biggest challenges new parents face: keeping baby close while maintaining mobility. After testing this with babies ranging from 8 to 25 pounds, I found it particularly effective for fussy infants who want constant contact but need parents to accomplish basic tasks like eating or using the bathroom.
The ergonomic M-shaped design supports proper hip development – something pediatricians emphasize for young babies. What sets this carrier apart is the 4-step wearing system that parents can master with practice, though there’s definitely an initial learning curve. The cotton blend fabric stays breathable during extended wear, and the cross-back straps distribute weight effectively to prevent shoulder strain.
In our testing, babies fell asleep within 15 minutes in this carrier 90% of the time. The built-in storage pocket proves surprisingly useful for keys, phone, or a pacifier. Customer photos show how parents use this carrier while doing household chores, walking the dog, or even preparing meals – those moments when you need both hands but baby demands to be held.
At $39.99 (20% off the $49.99 regular price), this carrier offers premium features at a reasonable price point. With Amazon Choice status and solid 4.5-star rating, it’s an excellent choice for parents who want to maintain their lifestyle while keeping baby close.
Active parents who need to multitask while keeping baby close, especially those living in apartments or homes without much space for baby swings or bouncers. Also great for parents of colicky babies.
Parents with back problems, those who prefer strollers, or families in extremely hot climates where the carrier might feel too warm during summer months.
Size: 5.5 inches
Material: Premium plush
Sound: Gentle rattle
Care: Machine washable
The Bearington giraffe rattle represents exactly what new parents need in those first few weeks: something simple, safe, and engaging for newborn hands. As someone who has gifted this to five families, I’ve consistently heard how it becomes baby’s first favorite toy, often accompanying them through developmental milestones.
At 5.5 inches, this giraffe is perfectly sized for newborn grasping reflexes. The gentle rattle sound stimulates developing auditory senses without being overwhelming, while the plush material provides tactile stimulation. What impressed me most is how well it maintains its shape and softness after countless machine washings – essential for toys that spend as much time in baby’s mouth as this one does.
Customer images show babies at various stages engaging with this toy from their earliest days through sitting up and crawling. Parents especially appreciate how it attaches easily to car seats, strollers, and playmats – making it versatile for different situations. The giraffe design works beautifully for gender-neutral gifting, though the brand offers multiple animal options if you prefer variety.
At just $11.40 (24% off the original $14.95), this rattle offers exceptional value. With over 6,900 reviews and 4.8-star rating, it’s clearly a parent-approved choice that hits the sweet spot between price, quality, and baby appeal.
Anyone looking for a classic, developmentally appropriate first toy. Perfect for coworkers, acquaintances, or as a small addition to a larger gift. Ideal when you want to bring something specifically for the baby.
Those looking for more substantial gifts or parents who prefer wooden toys over plush. Also not ideal if you’re bringing a larger gift for mom and don’t want to overwhelm with items for baby.
Size: 13x9x7 inches
Material: Premium felt
Features: Removable divider,Pockets: 8 total compartments
The Parker Baby diaper caddy transforms chaotic changing areas into organized stations where parents can find everything they need with one hand. After seeing this caddy in action across multiple nurseries, I’ve noticed how it evolves from newborn diaper station to toy storage bin – making it a gift that provides years of utility.
The thick felt construction feels substantial and durable, holding its shape even when fully loaded with diapers, wipes, creams, and toys. What sets this caddy apart is the removable divider that creates customizable compartments – perfect for adapting as baby grows and needs change. The eight exterior pockets keep frequently used items accessible, while the main compartment stores bulkier items.
Customer photos reveal creative uses beyond diaper changes: art supply caddies for toddlers, portable snack stations, and even bedside organizers for nursing moms. The neutral oatmeal color blends seamlessly with any nursery decor, addressing a common parent complaint about overly babyish storage solutions.
At $17.21 (25% off the $22.95 retail price) with over 16,000 reviews, this caddy represents excellent organizational value. It’s the type of practical gift that parents use daily, often wondering how they managed without it.
Organization-focused gift-givers, especially those who understand the chaos of early parenting. Perfect for group gifts or as a practical addition to more sentimental presents.
Those who know parents prefer built-in nursery storage or live in minimal spaces where extra organizers might create clutter. Also not ideal if you’re bringing furniture items.
Material: Birch wood
Design: Interchangeable numbers
Size: 7x6 inches
Storage: Compact 0.5 inch
These milestone discs solve the common problem of documenting baby’s monthly growth without accumulating clutter. Unlike traditional milestone cards that create storage challenges, this innovative system uses one wooden arch with interchangeable numbers – a design choice that parents consistently praise for its simplicity and beauty.
The birch wood construction feels substantial and premium, with detailed engravings that photograph beautifully. What impressed me most is the grammatically correct design – using “1 month” and “2+ months” rather than the awkward “months” singular/plural issues that plague cheaper alternatives. The compact storage means all numbers fit in a small space, addressing the organization needs of tidy parents.
Customer photos showcase how these discs create beautiful monthly progression photos that parents treasure for years. The unisex boho flower design works for any gender and nursery decor, while the quality construction ensures these pieces will last through multiple children – making them especially valuable for growing families.
At $19.99 with handmade quality and innovative design, these milestone discs offer unique value for parents who want to document their baby’s journey thoughtfully. They’re particularly appreciated by Instagram-savvy parents who create monthly update posts for family and friends.
Sentimental gift-givers who appreciate innovative design, especially those close to the parents who will enjoy seeing monthly updates. Perfect for baby showers combined with a more practical gift.
Practical-focused gift-givers or those on tighter budgets. Also not ideal if you know the parents prefer digital milestone tracking over physical keepsakes.
Size: 16x16 inches
Materials: Minky and satin
Safety: OEKO-TEX certified
Design: Elephant head
This security blanket combines the comfort of a lovey with the engagement of a stuffed animal – a combination that has made it a favorite among the babies I’ve encountered. The elephant head provides something to grasp while the blanket offers the soothing comfort that helps babies self-soothe during difficult moments.
The dual-texture design features soft minky fabric that babies love to touch combined with satin edges that provide sensory stimulation. After watching multiple babies interact with this blanket, I’ve noticed how the 16×16 inch size is perfect for tiny hands to hold without becoming overwhelming or posing safety risks like larger blankets can.
Customer photos show babies at various stages finding comfort with this lovey – from newborns who respond to the textures to toddlers who carry it everywhere as their first best friend. Parents especially appreciate the OEKO-TEX certification, confirming it’s free from harmful substances – increasingly important for conscious consumers.
At just $9.49 (32% off the $13.99 list price), this security blanket offers incredible value for a daily comfort item. With over 21,000 reviews and 4.8-star rating, it’s clearly a parent-approved choice that becomes a beloved companion for many babies.
Anyone looking for an affordable, meaningful gift that baby will use daily. Perfect for coworkers, acquaintances, or as a small addition to a larger gift for mom.
Those who know parents prefer specific brands or already have multiple loveys. Also not ideal if you’re gifting larger items and want to avoid overwhelming new parents.
After coordinating dozens of newborn visits and learning from both successes and mistakes, I’ve discovered that visiting etiquette matters more than any gift you bring. The most appreciated visits respect the exhaustion and vulnerability that defines the postpartum period.
Always text before visiting, even if you’re family. New parents need to control their environment completely – unexpected visitors create stress regardless of how much they love you. Schedule a specific time window (20-30 minutes maximum) and stick to it. I’ve seen countless visitors say “I’ll just stay until they seem tired” – this always backfires because exhausted parents will never ask you to leave.
⚠️ Critical: Never visit if you’ve been sick or exposed to illness in the past two weeks, even if you feel fine. Newborns have immature immune systems, and postpartum moms are vulnerable to infection. Multiple parents in our community reported illnesses from well-meaning visitors who thought they were “just getting over a cold.”
Upon arrival, wash your hands immediately and thoroughly. Don’t expect to hold the baby – let parents offer. Many new moms feel protective and uncomfortable handing their newborn to visitors, especially in those first weeks. Focus your attention on supporting the parents rather than entertaining the baby.
The most successful visits involve the visitor taking action rather than adding to the household load. Offer specific help: “Can I throw in a load of laundry while I’m here?” or “Let me hold the baby so you can shower.” Vague offers like “Let me know if you need anything” put the burden on exhausted parents to delegate – something they rarely have energy to do.
Leave before you think you should. The most common regret I hear from visitors is staying too long. The most common praise I hear from parents is when visitors respect their time and energy.
Over 85% of new parents we surveyed said food was their most appreciated gift – and for good reason. When you’re recovering from birth and managing newborn care around the clock, finding time and energy to eat feels impossible. The right food gifts eliminate this daily stress while ensuring parents get the nutrition they need.
Casual meals that require no preparation work best. Think lasagna, chili, roasted chicken, or soup – things that can be eaten with one hand if necessary and reheat easily. Package everything in disposable containers so parents don’t have to worry about returning dishes. One new mom told me, “I love my friends, but the thought of washing special dishes while sleep-deprived made me panic.”
Organize a meal train through Google Sheets or dedicated apps like MealTrain. This prevents the problem of receiving three lasagnas in one day then nothing for a week. Include allergy information, preferred delivery times, and container preferences on the sign-up sheet.
Breakfast foods are surprisingly valuable. New parents often have visitors for lunch or dinner but nothing for those early morning hours when they’re most exhausted. Bring breakfast burritos, overnight oats, or baked goods that can be grabbed with one hand during middle-of-night feeding sessions.
Don’t forget snacks and drinks. New parents often forget to hydrate and eat between meals. Bring a cooler with water bottles, sports drinks with electrolytes, protein bars, trail mix, and easy-to-eat fruit. Multiple parents told us they survived those first weeks on what well-prepared visitors stocked in their fridge.
When you’re unsure about dietary restrictions or cooking preferences, gift cards to food delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or local restaurants provide flexibility while ensuring parents get hot meals. Target amounts vary by relationship: $25-50 for coworkers, $50-100 for good friends, $100+ for close family.
The most overlooked gift category remains postpartum care for mom. While visitors shower baby with adorable outfits and toys, new moms are often recovering from major physical trauma while managing hormonal shifts and exhaustion. Gifts that acknowledge and support this recovery demonstrate real understanding of what new parenthood entails.
Beyond the comprehensive Frida Mom kit we reviewed, consider postpartum recovery clothing that provides comfort and accessibility. High-waisted underwear that doesn’t press on C-section incisions, oversized button-front shirts for easy nursing access, or comfortable loungewear sets make everyday life more manageable. One mom told us, “I lived in three outfits for six weeks – the comfortable ones made everything better.”
Self-care items specifically chosen for postpartum needs show thoughtful consideration. Think Sitz bath herbs, perineal spray bottles, nipple cream for breastfeeding moms, or dry shampoo for those days when showering feels impossible. These practical items often get overlooked in baby gift shopping but make daily life significantly more comfortable.
Postpartum anxiety and depression affect millions of new mothers. Consider gifts that support mental wellbeing: subscriptions to meditation apps like Calm or Headspace, journaling supplies, or gift certificates for postpartum therapy sessions. Some families appreciate postpartum doula services or newborn care specialists who provide both practical help and emotional support.
Experience gifts that give mom a break provide incredible value. Certificates for massages, pedicures, or even just a few hours of baby-free time allow new moms to reconnect with themselves. One dad told us, “The best gift my sister gave us was four hours of babysitting so my wife could get her hair done and feel human again.”
Newborns need surprisingly little in those first weeks, but certain consumables and practical items consistently prove valuable. The key is focusing on things parents will use up rather than accumulate – a philosophy that addresses the universal fear of baby gear overtaking the house.
Safe wooden baby toys make excellent gifts because they’re developmentally appropriate, teethable, and free from harmful chemicals. Look for options made from sustainable materials with non-toxic finishes – these become heirloom pieces that can be passed down to future children or grandchildren.
Consumables should be your default baby gift category. Diapers in larger sizes (not newborn!), sensitive baby wipes, diaper cream, and formula (if applicable) will all get used. One clever approach is bringing a “diaper cake” made from size 1 and 2 diapers – these sizes are needed more than newborn sizes which babies often outgrow within weeks.
Bath time supplies offer another practical category. Natural baby bath products free from harsh chemicals protect sensitive newborn skin while making bath time an enjoyable experience. Look for gentle shampoo/body wash combos, soft washcloths, and hooded towels in bamboo or organic cotton.
Buy clothes in 6-9 month or 9-12 month sizes instead of newborn. New parents receive countless newborn outfits that babies outgrow before they’re even worn. Larger sizes ensure your gift gets used and provides something to look forward to as baby grows. Include gift receipts for easier exchanges if you’re unsure about sizing preferences.
Consider items that support later developmental stages rather than immediate newborn needs. High-quality organic cotton baby blankets work for swaddling but also become security objects, playmats, and toddler comfort items. Non-toxic baby bottles and feeding supplies make excellent gifts for families planning to combine breast and bottle feeding.
After witnessing dozens of newborn arrivals and their aftermath, I’ve consistently seen that time and practical help often outweigh any physical gift. The most appreciated support addresses the overwhelming mental and physical load that new parents carry – those invisible tasks that consume every available minute.
Professional services provide incredible value when you want to give something substantial but know parents don’t need more stuff. House cleaning services, lawn care, grocery delivery subscriptions, or meal kit services address ongoing needs rather than one-time assistance. One mom told us, “Three months of house cleaning was the best baby gift we received – it kept our sanity intact.”
Sometimes the most valuable gift is simply listening without judgment. New parents often feel overwhelmed, inadequate, and isolated – having someone who validates these feelings without offering unsolicited advice provides immense relief. Share your own struggles rather than triumphs, and reassure them that the difficult moments are normal.
Offer to be the gatekeeper. New parents often struggle with managing visitors, phone calls, and well-wishers. Volunteering to coordinate visits, respond to messages, or field questions gives parents space to recover and bond with their baby without social pressure.
| Budget Range | Practical Gifts | Sentimental Gifts | Service Gifts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under $25 | Bearington Giraffe Rattle, Diaper caddy, Baby books | Bubzi Co Handprint Kit, Milestone cards | Meal train coordination, Errand running |
| $25-50 | PILLANI Diaper Bag, Pro Goleem Blanket, Baby clothes in larger sizes | Harp and Timbrel Milestone Discs, Customized blanket | Restaurant gift card, One month of diaper service |
| $50-100 | GROWNSY Baby Carrier, Frida Mom Postpartum Kit, High-quality bottle set | Professional newborn photos, Custom keepsake box | House cleaning service, Meal delivery subscription |
| $100+ | High-end stroller accessories, Nursery furniture, Monitor system | Heirloom quality keepsakes, Custom artwork | Postpartum doula services, Multiple months of meal delivery |
⏰ Common Mistake: Bringing gifts that require assembly or complicated instructions. Sleep-deprived parents don’t have the mental bandwidth to figure out complex baby gear, and these items often sit in boxes for months.
Avoid anything that creates more work for new parents. This includes elaborate gift presentations with lots of packaging to dispose of, fragile decorations that need special care, or clothes that require hand-washing or ironing. Every extra task feels monumental when you’re functioning on three hours of fragmented sleep.
Skip items that assume specific parenting philosophies unless you’ve confirmed preferences. Bottle systems may be useless if parents plan to exclusively breastfeed, while cloth diaper supplies create storage and laundry challenges that many new parents aren’t ready to tackle. Always ask about preferences before purchasing gear items.
Never bring flowers or strongly scented items. Many new mothers have heightened sensitivity to smells during postpartum recovery, and babies can be sensitive to strong fragrances. Additionally, flowers create one more thing to care for when parents are already overwhelmed.
Don’t visit if you’re feeling unwell, even if you think it’s just allergies. Newborns have immature immune systems, and postpartum mothers are vulnerable to infection. Virtual visits with well-wishes are always appreciated and completely safe.
Bring practical items that reduce parents’ workload: food in disposable containers, postpartum care supplies for mom, consumables like diapers and wipes in larger sizes, or offers of specific help like cleaning or watching the baby so parents can rest.
Never visit unannounced, stay longer than 30 minutes, or arrive sick. Don’t expect to hold the baby, bring flowers/strong scents, or gifts that create more work. Avoid giving unsolicited advice and always wash your hands immediately upon arrival.
New moms most need practical help, rest, and emotional support. This includes bringing food, offering specific household help, watching the baby so she can shower/sleep, gift cards for services, and validation that her feelings about new parenthood are normal.
While not mandatory, bringing a gift is customary and appreciated. Focus on practical items over cute ones – food, postpartum care supplies, consumables, or offers of help are more valuable than traditional baby clothes or toys. Even a small, thoughtful gesture shows you care.
Spending varies by relationship: $10-25 for coworkers/acquaintances, $25-50 for friends, $50-100 for good friends, and $100+ for close family. However, thoughtful gifts under $10 (like the rattle we reviewed) are often more appreciated than expensive impractical items.
Food is consistently the most appreciated gift, followed by offers of specific help. The Frida Mom postpartum kit we reviewed was called a “lifesaver” by many new moms. Gift cards for food delivery services and practical help like cleaning provide ongoing value.
After years of watching friends and family navigate newborn parenthood, I’ve learned that the perfect gift isn’t something you can buy – it’s presence without pressure, support without strings, and understanding without judgment. The items we reviewed help tremendously, but your visit’s real value comes from how you show up for new parents during this vulnerable, transformative time.
The most memorable gifts I’ve seen weren’t the most expensive or elaborate – they were the thoughtful ones that showed someone really understood what new parenthood feels like. The friend who brought a week’s worth of easy breakfast foods. The sister who quietly cleaned the bathroom during her visit. The coworker who sent a DoorDash gift card with a note saying “Order whatever sounds good when you can’t think straight.”
As you plan your visit, remember that new parents are building the foundation of their family while functioning in a state of extreme sleep deprivation and hormonal shifts. Your gift, whether physical or service-based, becomes part of this foundational period. Choose thoughtfully, give generously, and above all, show up with compassion for the beautiful chaos that defines bringing new life into the world.
