.png){kind=small}
As our account has grown, so have the number of questions we receive each day! Recently, a friend asked us what gifts we’d recommend for someone transitioning from one child to two. After texting her a full-on novel, we realized the information was too good not to share on a broader scope. So, whether you’re creating a registry for your own growing family or searching for the perfect gift for a close friend, here’s what we recommend to make life a little easier (and a lot more fun) during this exciting transition!
1. A Baby Carrier: Hands-Free for the Win
Parents of two need their hands more than ever! A baby carrier is a lifesaver when juggling a toddler and a newborn. For newborn snuggles, the Solly Baby Wrap is a popular choice among therapists for its softness and versatility—it works from birth and even into early toddlerhood. As babies grow, structured carriers like the Ergobaby Omni 360 provide structured support and comfort for longer outings. If your family also craves adventure like we do, we love the Deuter Kid Comfort for hikes! This is a great option especially for families that might already own the usual carriers from their first pregnancy.
2. Meal Services: A Delicious Lifesaver
Nothing says “I care” like a gift that keeps parents fed. Meal services like Home Appétit in Philadelphia provide gourmet, ready-to-eat meals that free up time and energy for bonding with the kids. If meal services aren’t an option, consider a Grub Hub gift card or dropping off freezer-friendly meals! My sister in law was a life saver stocking our freezer with crock pot ready meals, complete with instructions to finish the recipe on the outside of the containers. Meals from both Home Appetit and our family were especially helpful when juggling infants (both our boys!) in the NICU as well. It was just one less thing we had to worry about.
3. Activities, Memberships, and Safe Spaces for Toddler Play
Keeping a toddler entertained while bonding with a new baby can feel like a juggling act, but the right setup can make it much easier! A small play gym with a single exit is a great way to let your toddler explore safely while you focus on the baby. This kind of controlled play space ensures peace of mind when you're solo with both kids. One of our go-to's in Philly is Kith and Kin, or our own milestone play groups like Roll and Stroll at Rutabaga Toy Library! Gifts like sensory play kits, puzzles, or toddler activity books are also perfect for engaging little ones nearby. For families who love outings, memberships to local zoos, aquariums, or play gyms provide a year of fun and create special bonding opportunities for the whole family. These gifts are practical, long-lasting, and help create meaningful moments with two kiddos in tow.
4. A Double Stroller (and Accessories)
If the parents haven’t already picked one, a double stroller is a practical and thoughtful gift. We did a deep dive in 2022 as a family always traveling for one that would seat 2 kids the longest, had a lot of configurations, was the most compact for road trips, the lightest, and could fold with 2 seats still attached vs. most having to break down into multiple pieces. The winner? Sorry Uppa Baby, it was hands down the Cybex Gazelle S! This obviously has a high price point (but cheaper than Uppa!), so if is outside your budget consider a gift card to contribute or buy the accessories like stroller organizers, cup holders, weather covers, or a ride board for older kids to make outings with multiples even more of a breeze.
5. Matching Outfits for Siblings
Few things are cuter than siblings in matching outfits! One standout option is the denim Babe jackets from Ingrid & Isabel. These adorable jackets come in multiple sizes for the kids and even in a Mama version, perfect for chilly fall mornings or cool summer nights. We wear these constantly and are always getting compliments! We also love ordering custom matching outfits from Andie Jay Designs. They have so many fabric options you could easily gift something extra special that matches a nursery theme or family favorite!
6. Books About Siblings
Help ease the transition with books about becoming a big sibling! Titles like “I Am a Big Brother” or “What Brothers Do Best" prepare toddlers for their new role and spark excitement about the growing family.
7. A Family Photo Shoot
Give the gift of lasting memories with a professional photo shoot! It’s no secret that the early days of having two kids are a blur of sleepless nights and endless cuddles. Capturing this fleeting time ensures the family will always have cherished keepsakes to look back on. We always recommend doing newborn, 6 month, and 1 year photos like we did for each kid since the changes are mind-blowing in that short amount of time! Shout out to Rob Spring Photography (NY) and Shannon Ritter Photography (DE) for capturing some of our favorite photos ever!
8. Self-Care for Mom and Dad
Don’t forget the parents! Luxuries like a cozy robe, spa gift cards, date nights or even subscriptions for streaming services can help them recharge during this busy time. Like the oxygen masks of an airplane, you have to take care of yourself before helping others. Gifts to help parents decompress will help them show up and give the best version of themselves to their children.
Final Thoughts
Welcoming another child is a beautiful, chaotic time. Gifts for the parents help them find a rhythm while gifts inclusive of siblings reduce feelings of being replaced. Whether it’s practical gear, fun activities, or a chance to capture memories, these thoughtful gifts are sure to make the transition smoother for growing families.
Do you have a favorite gift idea for families with multiple kids? Share it in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to hear from you!
Comments