What Is a Baby Sprinkle, and Are They Really Necessary? (2024)

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  • What is a baby sprinkle?
  • Should you make a registry for a baby sprinkle?
  • How much should someone spend on a baby sprinkle gift?

There's nothing that could possibly match the excitement, challenges, and whirlwind of joy around having your first baby ... until you're expecting your second.

While it's customary to have a baby shower for your first pregnancy to be gifted all of the parenting products you need to get your home ready for your little one, having a shower for your second child (also known as a baby sprinkle) might not seem necessary. You might be wondering, "What is a baby sprinkle, and are they really a thing?"

In short: It is completely up to you whether you'd like to have a baby sprinkle. However, it may be worth having one so that you can bring your loved ones together, replenish your supply of diapers and baby wipes, and register for the cool baby gadgets that you wish you'd gotten the first time around.

What is a baby sprinkle?

"A baby sprinkle is reserved for your second or subsequent pregnancies, where the gender is usually the same as the first, and you do not need a lot of baby items because you feel pretty prepared after having your first child," says Amy Motroni, founder of the blog Genius Mom Hacks. If the gender of the second child is different from the first, Motroni says that you might consider holding another full-scale baby shower, so you can register for lots of different items.

"A shower is much more formal, and the sprinkle tends to be more casual," says Kristin Revere, certified birth and postpartum doula at Gold Coast Doulas, adding that there tend to be fewer people invited to a baby sprinkle than a shower.

Should you make a registry for a baby sprinkle?

Whether you're expecting your second child shortly after you've had your first or there's been a larger gap between them, it's a good idea to make a registry for a baby sprinkle. A registry gives your guests a guideline of which items are most useful to you and your growing household.

"Family and friends like to know exactly what they should buy the mom-to-be," says Motroni. "Many moms have favorite items or brands, so a baby registry is very helpful."

Where to create a baby registry: Amazon, Babylist, IKEA, Pottery Barn Kids, Target, Walmart

But if you already have all of the things that an expecting parent could possibly want, you could think outside the (gift) box, too.

"It is wonderful to consider registering for services like sleep consultants, postpartum doulas, or meal delivery services," says Revere.

How much should someone spend on a baby sprinkle gift?

If you've been invited to a baby sprinkle and you've already bought something from the registry, you still shouldn't show up empty-handed.

"While the gift doesn't have to be large, it is polite and good etiquette to attend a baby sprinkle with a gift," Motroni says. "Family and friends can all go in together and give a group gift, but showing up with at least a card is best."

The gift can be an affordable, basic baby item, too. "It could be something as small as a box of diapers or a swaddle," says Revere, who recommends a price point of $20 for a sprinkle gift.

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What Is a Baby Sprinkle, and Are They Really Necessary? (2024)

FAQs

What Is a Baby Sprinkle, and Are They Really Necessary? ›

A baby sprinkle is a casual and smaller-scale version of a baby shower. It is typically held for parents who are expecting their second, third, or subsequent child. The term "sprinkle" is a play on words, as it suggests a lighter celebration compared to the more elaborate and traditional baby showers.

Who typically throws a baby sprinkle? ›

While baby sprinkles are traditionally hosted by close family members and friends, Gosselin says it's becoming increasingly common for the parents-to-be to host an event themselves. “It allows them to have more control over the execution and timeline, which is often a big factor,” she explains.

What are the rules for a baby sprinkle? ›

Baby sprinkle etiquette for guests

Many guests who attend baby sprinkles opt to bring a gift — but what you offer is totally up to you. If you're not able to make it, it's up to you whether or not you send a gift. Either way, it's a good idea to RSVP so that the host can prepare for the event adequately.

How many people are invited to a baby sprinkle? ›

Baby sprinkle invitations, on the other hand, are usually sent to only the closest family and friends, since the focus isn't so much on getting new gear as it is getting support. Save room for around 10, and include people like parents, siblings, and your best friend of the past 15 years.

What is the appropriate gift amount for a baby sprinkle? ›

If you're pondering over the proper amount to spend on a baby sprinkle gift, the unwritten rule hovers around $20 to $50. It's a gentle shower of affection, not the full-on downpour of the first-time baby shower.

What is the point of a baby sprinkle? ›

A baby sprinkle is a casual and smaller-scale version of a baby shower. It is typically held for parents who are expecting their second, third, or subsequent child. The term "sprinkle" is a play on words, as it suggests a lighter celebration compared to the more elaborate and traditional baby showers.

Do you play games at a baby sprinkle? ›

While traditional baby shower games still work at a sprinkle, you can plan on simpler activities, too, like making a DIY shower gift as a group.

How long should a baby sprinkle last? ›

The typical time period for a baby sprinkle to last is around two hours. There won't be all the specific details like there would be at a baby shower.

Can you host your own sprinkle? ›

Who Should Host a Baby Sprinkle. Just like with a baby shower, the baby sprinkle can be hosted by either the expectant parents or a generous friend or relative.

What to wear to baby sprinkle? ›

Baby showers are typically associated with floral prints and light, happy colors like baby blue, light pink, and yellow. If that's the vibe you're feeling, lean into it! A sweet sundress with a bow detail isn't just great for a shower; you'll wear it all summer.

Do you open gifts at a baby sprinkle? ›

So you're "sprinkling" them with baby essentials—and love, of course. The parents-to-be can open gifts during the sprinkle, but it's not necessary and doesn't need to be the event's focal point.

What to bring to a baby sprinkle? ›

16 Top Baby Sprinkle Gifts
  • The Newborn Gift Set from Tubby Todd. ...
  • A Gift Card to BabyPage for Custom Baby Books. ...
  • The 6-layer Muslin Blanket from Crane Baby. ...
  • The Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag. ...
  • Muslin Cotton Burp Cloths. ...
  • Baby Moccasins from Freshly Picked. ...
  • Diapers in Cute Prints from Honest Baby. ...
  • Hatch Baby Rest.

How much should grandparents spend on baby gift? ›

Average gifts from family members range from $50 to $200. A cousin might spend $50, while a grandma or close Aunt might aim for a higher priced gift. If it's a really close friend, your budget might hover around $100.

Who is responsible for throwing a baby shower? ›

Typically, a close friend or family member will throw your shower, but coworkers or another loved one can host the party. While every baby shower is unique, the host usually takes care of organizing everything — so you can sit back and enjoy being celebrated.

Who is expected to throw a baby shower? ›

Tradition states that when it comes to throwing a baby shower, those who love you should do the honors. This person could be your best friend from college, a colleague from work, the next-door neighbor… or your sister, sister-in-law, mother, aunt, etc.

Is it appropriate to have a sprinkle? ›

A shower: part deux, or sprinkle would also be appropriate, according to Post, if the second baby is of a different gender than the first, and hosts felt compelled to shower the family with some traditionally pink or blue loot.

Who traditionally throws a bridal shower? ›

The Traditional Bridal Shower Host

The maid of honor traditionally takes on the role of chief shower planner. But she isn't a one-woman show: She relies on the bridesmaids to help her with planning logistics. On the day of, the girls run the party, making sure everything goes smoothly and that guests are taken care of.

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