Help fill Mom's picture frames by booking a portrait session for the growing family at a local photography studio. Family photos are often something that fall by the wayside, but long after the kids have grown, Mom will be grateful to have these treasured family photographs (where everyone looks good!).
Photo: Getty/Robyn Breen Shinn
Many second time moms are not as strict about the occasional glass of wine (and with two kids, she might need a little help unwinding!). Give her a practical gift like these Milkscreen alcohol detection strips so she can have peace of mind with her glass of wine.
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An offer to babysit both kids, or perhaps just the older sibling so mom can focus on baby and get some rest, is another wonderful gift idea. Bonus points for babysitting both kids so the parents can go on a quick date together. And if you yourself can't babysit, try a reputable babysitting service, like Urbansitter.
Photo: Getty/Cultura RM/Laura Beach
It's quite possible a second time mom already has one of those cute sheep sleep machines from baby number one, but a top-of-the-line white noise machine could be a godsend with baby number two, especially if the siblings are going to share a room and the older one has to sleep through middle-of-the-night cries.
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There may be no greater gift to a second time mom than the gift of a clean house. Consider offering to come help her by washing dishes or setting up a cleaning service to do a full cleaning. Find a recommended service with lots of locations, like Molly Maid, and buy a voucher toward a cleaning so the mom can make arrangements at her convenience.
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Know of a great item that mom didn't have for her first baby, like a Mamaroo or a baby carrier? Or has something cool come out since her first baby that you know she'll love, like the Baby Brezza Formula Pro or a baby monitor with two cameras (one for each kid)? Consider chipping in with friends to treat Mom with an item you know will make her life easier.
Food preparation is another huge help to a new mom. Whether you prepare a meal yourself or order the family's favorite takeout meal, it will be so appreciated. If you know the mom's group of local friends, consider setting up a Meal Train to take turns delivering meals for a week or two. My Mom's Club group does this, and it is a wonderful gift.
Photo: Getty/Stefan Hoth / EyeEm
With so much attention going toward the new baby, it's no surprise when older siblings begin to feel neglected. Show the big sister or brother they're still important by stopping by with a gift for them—something that has nothing to do with "being a big sibling"—like a cool play tent or some new Duplos.
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Coordinated outfits for the new baby and the older sibling are a sweet idea that the whole family will love. It's not entirely "necessary," but clothes are always useful, and matching or coordinated clothes, like this cute set from PeekaBaby, are a great gift that will help the older child feel included.
Photo: Etsy
Help mom remember to take photos of baby number two by giving her milestone stickers, milestone cards, or even an easy-to-fill-in baby journal for the new baby.
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Help baby number two avoid "hand-me-down kid" status by giving him or her a blanket, toy, or memento with their name on it. I love personalized blankets, leggings, and hats like these from Boco Baby.
Gift cards to a restaurant or a store like Target, Fresh Direct, or even Amazon are all great ideas so that the family can get something they need when that need arises.
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Every baby needs diapers and wipes, and lots of them, so these are always appreciated gifts. Or you could consider enrolling them in a diaper and wipe delivery subscription like one from The Honest Company.
Photo: The Honest Company
A massage, a pedicure, a bath & body gift set like this Mama's Ritual Set from Zoe Organics, or a relaxing candle like the lavender one from Riles & Co are all great gifts to pamper mom and will make her feel like a new person.
What mom doesn't love (and desperately need) a coffee delivery at any given time of the day? How amazing would it be to hear a knock on the door and find your favorite latte waiting for you at your doorstep? Bonus points for donuts, too.
Photo: Getty/Adam Drobiec /EyeEm