What do you buy a baby for their first Christmas?

A keepsake-style gift paired with something practical works well. A play mat or baby mobile gets lasting use, while swaddling blankets and bibs are everyday items parents always need more of.

Are play mats worth it for a baby?

Many parents find them useful for tummy time and floor play in the first year. Look for one that is easy to wipe or wash and folds away when not in use.

What is a good gift for a newborn?

Swaddling and receiving blankets, bibs and a baby mobile are all practical choices. Check with the parents first to avoid doubling up on gifts from their baby shower.

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Gifts for a baby

25 gift ideas tagged for a baby, across 33 categories. Every card opens Amazon.ca or Amazon.com in your store.

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Baby activity toys

Babies cannot say what they want and outgrow things quickly, so gifts are really for both the baby and the tired parents. Items that get daily use, like swaddling blankets and bibs, or a play mat that keeps a baby busy during floor time, tend to be appreciated most.

Where to look

Categories with the most for a baby

Budget:Any Under $15 $15–$25 $25–$50 $50–$100 Over $100

Showing 25–25 of 25

Gift ideaSorting & stacking toys
Wooden shape sorting cube
This classic toy helps toddlers develop problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination by matching shapes to corresponding holes.
Usually $15–$25

How to choose for a baby

Match the gift to the baby's current age, since a newborn and a ten-month-old use very different things.
Pick practical everyday items like bibs or receiving blankets in soft, washable fabrics that hold up to frequent laundry.
Choose activity toys and play gyms with high-contrast colours, varied textures and gentle sounds for early play.
Ask the parents about their nursery style or existing gear so a mobile or play mat fits their space.

Usually safe to skip

Large noisy toys that take up space and wear on parents' patience.
Newborn-size clothing, since babies often outgrow it before it gets worn.
Pacifiers chosen without asking, because babies and parents often have strong preferences.

Questions people ask about gifts for a baby

What do you buy a baby for their first Christmas?: A keepsake-style gift paired with something practical works well. A play mat or baby mobile gets lasting use, while swaddling blankets and bibs are everyday items parents always need more of.
Are play mats worth it for a baby?: Many parents find them useful for tummy time and floor play in the first year. Look for one that is easy to wipe or wash and folds away when not in use.
What is a good gift for a newborn?: Swaddling and receiving blankets, bibs and a baby mobile are all practical choices. Check with the parents first to avoid doubling up on gifts from their baby shower.