Push Presents - What Are They?
The journey of pregnancy and childbirth is a remarkable and transformative experience. The tradition of giving “push presents” has gained popularity in recent years to honor and celebrate this special occasion. Push presents are thoughtful tokens of appreciation bestowed upon the birthing parent to recognize the changes, challenges, joys, and everything they’ve faced for nine months. They are also known as “baby baubles” or “birthing gifts” as the term “push” doesn’t necessarily encompass all types of birth.
Here we will delve into the origin of push presents when to give them, some ideas and examples of what kinds of gifts can be given, and who typically gives them.
The exact origin of push presents or baby baubles is hard to pinpoint. Some believe this tradition hails back to several hundred years ago, stemming from places such as the UK, India, and Egypt, symbolizing fertility, strength, and the preciousness of new life. Jewelry is thought to have been the most customary gift. These lovely gestures of appreciation were given to the birthing parent to acknowledge and commemorate the effort that went into such a momentous occasion.
Whether old or new, the practice seems to have gained a renewed popularity in the United States over the last few decades and has evolved beyond just jewelry. These gifts have become a cherished way for partners, family members, and friends to express their love and gratitude to the expectant parent for their incredible journey and sacrifices.
They are often gifted after the parent has given birth, typically in the hours or days following delivery, however there is no set rule for this. If suitable, a push present could be given early, especially if it is something that can help provide comfort and relief during pregnancy.
Push presents can take many forms, depending on the preferences and interests of the birthing parent. Some popular items and ideas include:
Jewelry
The timeless elegance of jewelry continues to be a go-to choice for push presents. A piece of customized birthstone jewelry, or something that includes their baby’s initials can hold immense sentimental value. Bracelets, lockets, necklaces, or watches are all lovely options. These can also be beautiful heirlooms to share with their child someday!
Personalized Keepsakes
Meaningful mementos such as engraved photo frames, baby footprint kits, customized birth announcements, or even artwork can capture the joyous memories of childbirth and serve as cherished reminders of the magical day for years to come. Some other unique examples include photo shoots, or star maps showing how the stars in the night sky were arranged on the day of the baby’s birth. Anything to commemorate the special day and the birthing parent’s amazing journey.
Symbolic Birth Flowers or Plants
Flowers or plants that represent the birth month of the baby can be an incredibly thoughtful gift, especially if the parent has a green thumb! Not only do they add natural beauty to their surroundings, they also serve as a constant reminder of the joyous occasion. A new house plant can grow and thrive alongside their little one, or flowers can be dried or pressed to save the memory of that magical day!
Pampering and Wellness
After the arduous journey of pregnancy and childbirth, many parents appreciate some well-deserved self-care. They might enjoy being treated to some at-home goodies, like a plush robe, comfy clothes, or an extra cozy blanket. Alternatively, a spa day can offer much-needed rejuvenation. Prenatal massages and facials are also popular items to help ease discomfort late in pregnancy.
These gifts can be given by…well, anyone! Partners, family, friends - truly any loved ones are all welcome to celebrate the expectant parent and all of the dedication, endurance, and strength they’ve shown.
Push presents or baby baubles aren’t only reserved for biological parents, either. Many adoptive, surrogate, and other constellations of parents like to do something special to celebrate and commemorate welcoming their new child to the world!
There’s no one “right time” to give a push present and no one “right gift” to give. Give what you feel will best suit your person whenever you think it will be the most meaningful. Push gifts are simply a lovely way to show expecting parents how much you appreciate them and all of their efforts, and to make them feel as special as they are. Happy gifting!
