History Of The Baby Shower
Baby showers have been popular in many countries for hundreds of years, but they have gone through some considerable changes. In times past no one was invited to the home to see the child until it was older for the fear of bringing sickness to the baby. Any gifts were usually given during a religious ceremony such as a christening when the child was a month or so old.
Victorian ladies of the 1800's began having tea parties for new moms which took place after the baby was born because pregnant women did not appear in public at that time. In the early 1900's, the tea parties transformed into "showers" and the umbrella became symbolic, as it was customary for ladies to carry parasols when attendeding the afternoon events.
Almost all of the gifts given were handmade except the gift of silver given to the babies by the grandmothers. The baby showers of today are customary and great fun for the first time mom, and are called "sprinkles" for the second or more child.
Baby showers have always served several purposes. They allow friends and family to share the joy and excitement of welcoming a new life into the world, and they provide emotional support to new parents. It is not uncommon for an expectant mother or father to be nervous about their new role as a parent. A friendly word of advice from a friend or family member can be extremely helpful, and the presence of everyone who attends the shower is a supportive gesture that many appreciate.
The expense of a baby can put quite a strain on a couple's budget, especially if the mother will no longer be working. Baby showers offer a chance for friends and family to help expectant parents with the costs of preparing for and caring for a newborn. New parents always need both fun and practical things, and hand made gifts or toys create memories that last a lifetime.