Baby Showers Can Be Fun

Have you noticed that tradition has changed in allowing a father-to-be to participate at baby showers?  That was not always the case. In the past, a baby shower was considered for women only. A time to celebrate the birth of a child and to give gifts that the expectant mother would need.  With fathers taking a hands-on role with children today they are usually invited to these showers. Today fathers change diapers and babysit the newborn when the mother needs time away for herself.

Some traditions still believe that giving a gift before the baby is born may bring bad luck. Some cultures may hold “social gatherings” during the seventh month of pregnancy. At times, showers were given for the family’s first child but now it is common to give a shower when a baby is due whether it’s the first or third.  The types of gifts given were baby clothing, shoes, diapers, toys, and hand made blankets. Women only showers were typically arranged by a friend or close relative.  They would mail out the invitations, cater the food, order a cake, prepare the party favors and handle the “baby theme” games.  These games were called baby word scrabble, guessing the number of safety pins in a bowl or baby shower bingo.

In recent times, however, showers are given for both parents.  A barbecue is usually held when fathers are invited along with other couples. During the party the fathers would do something else, while the mother-to-be and her friends open the baby gifts. Welcome Fathers!