11 best gifts for new working moms
Once you become a parent, the holiday season tends to become all about the kids — which, to be honest, can be pretty fun. But it can be a lot of work too, especially if you’re trying to survive the holiday season while breastfeeding. Most parents would love to unwrap something for themselves — especially something that makes life a little easier.
This holiday season, show your appreciation for the hard-working parent in your life with gifts! If you’re not sure what they’d like, we’ve rounded up some ideas. Read on for our favorite gifts for working moms and parents.
1. An actually stylish pump bag — with more gifts inside!
A pump bag doesn’t need to look like a pump bag. A tote like the Sarah Wells’ Abby bag is sleek enough for work, but large enough for a pump and accessories — plus room for a laptop and lunch. Insulated pockets at the bottom are made for breast milk and ice packs, and a side zip pocket provides plenty of room to store a pump, with easy access for midday sessions. Durable and easy to clean, this is sure to be one of the most appreciated gifts for parents traveling for work.
2. Listening material for a brain vacation
Between work and kids, when is a busy working parent supposed to find time to curl up with a good book? An Audible membership can turn a commute, walk in the park, or trip to the store into an immersive experience. Memberships range anywhere from one month to a year’s worth of audiobook credits. Best of all, they’ll have the ability to choose any kind of book they love — whether that’s personal development, learning about your rights as a breastfeeding parent (!), enthralling dramas, or learning a new language.
3. Caffeine on-demand
Is there anything better than the smell of coffee in the morning? The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is a sleek, gorgeous way to wake up to a hot cup of brew. The app allows you to control the strength, amount, and even the temperature of your coffee from afar. Can’t reach your phone? No worries, this smart coffee machine pairs with Google Assistant and Alexa. Really, it’s the next best thing to having someone else make your coffee for you.
4. A cozy sweater (with room for two)
Catching a few extra zzz’s each night is (of course) the best gift for a new parent — but if that’s not possible, wrapping them in a cloud-like cocoon cardigan is the next best thing. The Hatch Collection features this cozy Snuggle Sweater in two great staple colors. Designed to go seamlessly from maternity to babywearing, this wrap makes a perfect gift for a new parent-to-be, as well as anyone who’s always got a little on their hip.
5. Jewelry that goes with everything
For a sentimental gift that won’t sit on the shelf, go for a simple necklace stamped with baby’s initial. Save or splurge; there are so many options of brand, material, and design that you can find a gorgeous piece at any price point. We love the classic design of the One in a Million initial pendant necklace from Kate Spade New York.
6. A classic baby keepsake
While any parent probably has a million photos saved on their phone, a baby book makes for a beautiful keepsake. Emily Ley’s version covers birth to age 2, with a mix of prompts and open spaces. One of the best features: It’s three-ring bound, so extra pages can be added along the way. Help get parent started by printing out some special photos, and if it’s appropriate, fill in a few pages.
7. A mid-day meal (or late-night snack)
The parents in your life will truly appreciate anything that makes life easier. Serve up a gift card to a favorite lunch spot, or grab one for a delivery app so they can choose their own meals. One thing they’ll appreciate not having to do: spending precious minutes brown-bagging a lunch in the a.m.
8. A calendar that combines form and function
Working parents have an endless number of tasks to keep up with, and often don’t have the luxury of separating work stuff from home stuff — especially if they work from home. Give them a planner with ample room to manage both. Passion Planner has a variety of stunning designs, with reflective prompts and space to record favorite memories. And for those who do everything on their phones, digital planners are also available.
9. An endorphin-inducing sweat sesh
Know a fitness enthusiast who needs some me-time? Give them permission to get away with a pass to their favorite yoga studio, cycling class, or training program. For a mix-and-match option, ClassPass offers plenty of flexibility in location, schedule, and type of workout. ClassPass credits can also be used toward self-care experiences, like a mani/pedi, haircut, or massage.
10. Spa-worthy skincare
Assemble a basket of indulgent skincare products that give the feeling of a spa day, even after back-to-back meetings. Travel-sized tubes of high-quality body butter and hand cream are perfect for working parents who have to hop on a plane, commute to an office, or even just need a pump break pick-me-up.
11. An extra set of hands
When it comes down to it, the best gift for a working parent is time. Schedule someone to come in to help with cleaning, laundry, dog-walking, or mowing the lawn. Taking something off their plate gives busy parents a chance to relax, spend time with the kids (or solo), and remind them that they don’t have to do it all alone.
Questions about which tools will make the difference for you and your family as a breastfeeding parent? An insurance-covered consultation with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can make all the difference in helping to craft a plan and list of gifts that fits you and your family!
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
