Miss Manners: My childhood friend is having a baby, but we’ve grown apart
perigon
Last updated: April 21, 2026
A long-time acquaintance, known since childhood, is expecting their first child. The sender wants to offer a gift but has a distant relationship with the expectant parent. The core issue is selecting an appropriate gift given the limited current interaction.
- Gift Suggestion: Given the distance in the relationship, a practical and universally appreciated gift is recommended. This avoids the potential awkwardness of personal items or gifts that might reflect a closer bond.
- Practical Options: Consider gifts that are useful for new parents, such as high-quality baby essentials. These could include organic baby clothing, a soft blanket, or a collection of essential feeding supplies.
- Avoidance of Over-Personalization: It is advisable to steer clear of overly sentimental or highly specific baby items, as these might not align with the parents' preferences or needs without closer knowledge.
- Consideration for a Group Gift: If the sender is unsure about individual preferences, pooling resources for a larger, more impactful item from a registry or a well-regarded baby store could be a thoughtful approach.
- Focus on Utility: The most considerate gesture in such a situation is a gift that directly supports the practical demands of welcoming a new baby, demonstrating care without imposing personal expectations.
