Are you wondering what gifts to buy for Baby’s first Christmas? Baby may not know it’s his or her first Christmas, but it’s a milestone too important—and too much fun—for mami and papi to not celebrate. An ornament that says “First Christmas” or an engraved silver spoon to mark the occasion hits the right sentimental note, so go ahead and get those for the adults. But just because Baby is too young for tearing open the wrapping paper—and the concept of holiday spirit is flying right over that adorable little head like Santa and his reindeer—doesn’t mean you can’t give a first Christmas gift that’s fun for Baby and even useful, too.
From a sweet little trinket that’s fun to shake to a big-ticket item that can serve as nursery eye-candy until Baby’s old enough to play with it, here are five gift ideas for every budget that will ring in the holiday just right for even the littlest snow bunny.
Rattle—A sturdy, colorful rattle is something every baby will love to hold, shake, and chew on. We like the Pipapo by Haba ($12.59), which is not only fun to say, but sure to be a hit, with its classic wooden design, bright rings, and clacking beads. The Sassy Ring Rattle ($3.99) has an eye-catching black-and-white design, textured handle (great for gripping!), and rolling beads that make it ideal for the newborn set.
Teether—It’s an unavoidable fact that few things will come in handier in the coming months than a good teether. And, the right one doubles as a plaything, too. The sweet-looking, super-popular Sophie the Giraffe ($18.39), is an all-time favorite, and made of natural rubber that is Phthalates and BPA-free. (And she squeaks, too!). The colorful Bright Starts Polar Gel Teether Keys ($4.99) combines three lovable elements: the key ring that babies can’t get enough of; nubbly textures that are just right for gnawing; and the gel filling that you can safely chill in the freezer—ideal for soothing Baby’s aching gums.
Teddy Bear—There’s something about a soft, fuzzy teddy that seems just right for the holidays, and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company offers its own deluxe version Baby’s First Teddy Bear ($64.99) that comes with a festive Santa hat and a bib that’s customizable. The colorful, friendly Chicco Bilingual Teddy Count With Me ($49.99) is a great pick for the household that wants Baby to speak in both English and Spanish. This soft plush teddy spouts words, rhymes, and numbers to tu bebe in both languages, and has fun buttons on its hands, feet, and belly that make it ideal for both mommy and baby to play with.
Blankie—What’s better for snuggling in those wintry holiday months than a soft, cozy blanket? These two picks double as beloved blankie and an animal friend. Land of Nod’s soft, machine washable Cuddle Me Dear ($29) can be embroidered with your baby’s name.
Rocking Horse—So maybe Baby’s not old enough to go riding into the sunset just quite yet, but a rocking horse is a special way to ring in that first Christmas (and it looks great in the nursery, too!). Melissa and Doug’s Rock and Trot Plush Rocking Horse Toy ($119.00) has the wooden base and classic design of a traditional rocking horse, but the plush horse and trotting sound effects give it a modern. Or, go with something funkier like the Gymnic Rody Inflatable Horse ($39.95 on Amazon.com), which comes in a variety of bright, cheerful colors. There’s nothing traditional about this vinyl rocker; it looks more like pop art than a rocking horse and makes for a mod addition to Baby’s room. As with any toy, note the recommended age range, keep all restrictions in mind, and be there to supervise, or limit use, until Baby’s old enough.
