Post by Jayne Mangione

Is there any happier sight than that of a new baby?  The ooohs, aaahs and gurgles make the transition to parenthood all worth it!  I’ve brought home two babies in my tenure as a parent, and while much of those first weeks is a warm, fuzzy blur, I cherish those memories. My family and friends showered me with gifts during these times. Many were fabulously helpful as I navigated the waters of motherhood. Seriously, I could STILL sing the praises of these swaddle blankets from the mountaintops, and my “baby” is 3 now! Here are some of my favorite baby gifts and new-parent lifesavers!

Robes and Slippers:  Great for bath time.  Also great for water play or at the pool!

Swaddle Blankets:  Large size makes “escapes” from swaddles harder.  This item is truly multi-purpose and can be used as a stroller cover, sun shade, grass blanket, nursing cover, burp cloth, napkin, and swaddle blanket.  The breathable fabric keeps baby comfortable.

Baby Rattles:  Great for little hands to grasp.

Mobiles:  Easy to repurpose as décor or play pieces, great avenue for parents to introduce animal noises to baby.

Sophie:  Great for molars.  Can really chew to soothe sore gums.  Awesome texture, too.

Personalized Wall Art:  Sentimental value is priceless.

Winkel:  Multi-purpose:  rolling, catching, shaking, teething

Tower of Babble Blocks:  Great talking point for parents and kids, helps to develop early literacy and vocabulary development.

Impressions Handprint:  They’re never this size again.

Puzzles:  Fine motor skills.  Colors.  Shapes.  Matching.

Land of Nod CD:  Children’s music helps to strengthen a range of auditory skills.  Clapping to rhythm helps brain development.

Easy Catch Knit Ball:  For your future Hall of Famer!

Post by Jayne Mangione. Jayne has a lot of experience with children as a former elementary school teacher and a mom of two kids. In her job as a customer service specialist at Nod, she offers advice to customers on our wide array of products, 90% of which she and her family already own. A Chicago native, she’s mastered multiple seasons, often in one week, while being able to cite 90’s pop culture and musical references at the drop of a hat.  Speaking of hats, ask her about the time she looked like Blossom.