Baby showers are a great opportunity to ask for gifts that will be needed right after the baby is born. Until recently, these types of parties were more of an American tradition. In Poland, the arrival of a new family member before delivery was not celebrated, which was influenced by many superstitions. Fortunately, superstitions were created centuries ago, most often due to the lack of scientific explanations for some phenomena, so in today's age of science we can safely stop being superstitious and start reaping the benefits of an event such as a baby shower. This name, although borrowed from English, has caught on very well in Poland. It is sometimes used interchangeably with the term "bociankowe".
The reception usually takes place up to six weeks before the planned delivery date. The entire organization rests with the close relatives of the mother-to-be and according to American tradition - a baby shower should be a surprise . Originally, it was held only with the participation of women. It was an opportunity to discuss intimate issues, and experienced mothers could share their knowledge in the field of infant care. Currently, women's issues are no longer a taboo subject reserved only for the female gender, and men are also increasingly present at baby showers. Thanks to this, the party is given in honor of both parents - after all, it is not only the mother who will have to deal with the new situation.
Baby Gender Reveal
It is becoming increasingly popular to keep the child's gender a secret. The official announcement is supposed to be a surprise for the future parents and their loved ones. Gender Reveal Party is the name of the party, which has not yet found its Polish equivalent. This idea also originated in the United States, and such parties began to appear after 2000. During the Gender Reveal Party, parents, family and friends find out whether the baby in mom's belly is a boy or a girl. In Poland, this event is often combined with the previously mentioned Baby Shower, and the news about the baby's gender becomes one of the surprises of the afternoon.
The perfect gift for a future mother
Before attending a baby shower, you need to stock up on the right gift for the mother-to-be or the baby. Most people decide to clothes, cotton diapers, nappies, various kinds of keepsake books, jewelry for mom with engraving or a child motif, such as a pacifier, feet or an angel. Before making a decision, it is worth consulting your ideas with the future mother, to prevent duplicating gifts or buying something that will not work at all. It is becoming more and more common to create gift lists and share them with invited people. This is a great convenience for the guests, and also a joy for the mother, who will receive for her child what she dreamed of.
During the first days of life, the list of essentials will definitely include: a baby wrap or swaddle, diapers and good quality bedding. Definitely a better choice than dresses, tracksuits and going-out clothes will be universal bodysuits, adjustable with ties at the bottom . After all, we are not sure how many centimetres the baby will be right after birth. Bodysuits will make it easier for parents to change and change the baby's diapers and we can be sure that - due to their convenience - they will be used every day. In addition, it is worth considering a collection to buy a bigger gift, e.g. a car seat or an electronic nanny. Such a gift will certainly relieve the parents financially.
Until now, gifts were given right after the baby was born, but considering many circumstances, this is not the best time. The new situation and responsibilities, and sometimes a difficult postpartum period, mean that the last thing a new mother wants to do is to receive, usually unannounced, guests. The first weeks with a baby are a unique time for the body to adapt and regenerate after birth. A baby shower allows you to experience this time in peace, because it is an opportunity to give all the gifts much earlier.