Though it seems like an eternity ago, I have a daughter who is only two years old.

It wasn’t that long ago that I was a stressed out new parent (stress is far from gone just in a very different manner). We were one of the first in our circle of friends to have a kid but now it seems everyone is starting to catch up! Given that it wasn’t that long ago I was in their position I have a pretty good idea of good, useful gifts for new parents.

Here are some frugal gift ideas for new parents.

Cleaning

Though there is a difference between messy and dirty, maintaining your home during those first few weeks is tough, even on a basic level. I was home recovering with a c-section and though my husband was home to help, he was busy helping me and baby, taking care of basic needs like food, comfort and laundry.

Cleaning the house was the bottom of the list. After a few weeks when I started feeling better and kid was into more of a sleep routine (I miss those long newborn naps sometimes!) I was able to do it but I so appreciated when my sister came over just to help tidy up and sweep the floor. I could rest and she helped every few days with tidying up. If you don’t want to donate your own time to help parents with cleaning, consider getting a gift certificate for a cleaning service. Trust me, they will use it!

Food

In the weeks leading up to baby I prepped a few meals to freeze but not everyone has time to do that. I think my favorite gift was food. We both so appreciated having food delivered. We were both tired and didn’t feel like cooking, even to turn the BBq on to cook the burgers I had already prepped. We received both cooked meals and gift certificates for meals to go, both of which were blessings.

Sleep

Once my husband went back to work and I was on my own during the day, I did receive a treat visit once or twice when friends or family came over to watch baby for a few hours so I could rest. Sleeping when baby sleeps is much easier said then done and a rest when you really need it is invaluable, trust me.

Basic Needs

Though it’s tempting to buy cute fluffy toys and blankets for a new baby, parents would love to help with basics like diapers, pajamas or clothes for the kid that will grow (and fast). I had one friend but outfits for a 12 to 18 month old. It was nice to have clothes for all ages and not just newborn.

Becoming a parent, especially the first time, is a stressful time. They say the first year of marriage is hard, I would argue that the first year as parents is the most difficult I’ve ever been through. If you’re looking for a good gift to give your new parent friends, the truth is that the more practical the gift, the better!

What would you add to the list?

Any tips for gifts for new parents?