When attending a new baby’s baptism, also known as a christening, you will want to choose the perfect gift to commemorate this special day. Gifts can range from jewelry and decorative pieces to religious-inspired toys and books. Whether you’re a godparent, friend, or family member, we’ve rounded up the 10 best baptism gift ideas to help you decide what to get for the newly christened little one. More: 19 Sentimental Baby Gift Ideas Inspired By Family History and Traditions
Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Purchasing a Baptism Gift
Religious reference
Baptism is a religious ceremony, so religious imagery like crosses or Bible references are appropriate gift ideas. While not every gift given on the baptism day must be directly Christian, if you are a godmother or godfather, sticking to something baptismal for your goddaughter or godson makes sense.
Elegance
Baptism is a formal ceremony, and although gifts may be cute, they should reflect that formality. Although not every gift has to have a religious reference, such as if you are not personally Christian, an elegant gift is always the right choice. Gold or sterling silver is always a fine idea, but a baby blanket can also be in good taste.
Keepsake
These gifts are meant to last and be cherished. Go for something of high quality that can be appreciated over a person’s lifetime and perhaps passed down as a family heirloom.
How We Chose Our Favorites
I have attended many baptisms throughout my life, and even participated in a few baptism ceremonies. I have learned through my own culture what kinds of baptism gift ideas work best. At FamilyEducation, we always talk with real parents and gift-givers to help us narrow down the best choices as well. Looking for more gift ideas for baby? Here are our top picks for First Birthday Gifts. A crib cross is a religious symbol believed to protect and bless a sleeping baby. This adorably simple crib cross comes with either a pink ribbon for a baby girl or a blue ribbon for a baby boy. It can be hung alone or mounted in a picture frame. It is a cute yet elegant gift that will last as a keepsake. Parents can start teaching Bible stories from early on with this cute board book set. It includes the stories of Adam and Eve, Noah’s Ark, Moses, and Jesus. It is accessible and meant to be enjoyed by little ones while still remaining serious enough to stay focused on religion. Since it’s a board book, it will likely last through infancy and toddlerhood, but this one might not last a lifetime. This cute story about a baby polar bear and his mother will have adults tearing up as they read it aloud. The book sends the important message that every child is a unique gift from God who is deserving of love. It is such a touching story and, if well taken care of, can be kept as a bedtime story for future generations. The best part about this gift set is a plush lamb that recites the prayer “Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep” when you press his tummy. There’s also a beautiful board book of blessings featuring hand-painted illustrations. This gift teaches the basics of religious traditions and it is a fun and cute stuffed animal but it is also classic enough to be considered elegant. This plush lamb and prayer book can decorate a nursery and be kept as a memento forever. A classic christening gift is jewelry. This gold bar bracelet can be personalized with the child’s name and date of birth. Although it does not have any explicit religious references, this baby name bracelet is traditionally given at a child’s baptism. Often it is given by the godparents to their godchild. It is probably the most elegant gift you can choose, and it can be kept for life and passed on as a family keepsake. The rosary is a major prayer tool, and one of the most explicit religious references you could gift. Many people believe that a rosary is protective. This one comes in either pink for a baby girl or blue for a baby boy and is presented in a ceramic keepsake box adorned with dainty details. It is quite a tasteful christening gift and will last as a memento. This board book features 41 religious prayers, each accompanied by an adorable illustration. It’s perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. It might not last a lifetime but it is durable enough to be loved through childhood. It’s definitely refined for a children’s book. Kids learn best through play and little ones will love this best seller toy ark which draws its inspiration from an important Bible story. It comes with 4 pairs of animals and a figure of Noah holding a dove. You can also purchase more animals separately. Though it’s a plastic toy it has a classic look that makes this gift appropriate. This cute snow globe has the most adorable little lamb inside of it, and it plays the tune of Jesus Loves Me. Along with the religious song, it is also adorned with a cross, the symbol of Christianity. It is a tasteful baptism gift of high quality that can be kept in a child’s room through childhood and beyond. This child’s Bible is loved and trusted by parents and is a best seller. Something to bring out after the child grows into toddlerhood, it’s the perfect first Bible. Choose the hardcover to make it last the longest and to give it a more refined look as a gift. Sign the inside with “god bless” and the baby’s name and christening date. A baby spoon is the ultimate classic gift and it’s perfect at a christening. This one is definitely a keepsake and quite elegant. This casting kit allows parents to cast their little ones hands and feet. It’s done in an attractive silver casting with a tasteful picture frame and space for a photograph adjacent. This one is a keepsake that the family will be glad they have years from now. A locket is a tasteful christening gift from godparent to goddaughter or grandparent to granddaughter. This one is beautiful and dainty, made of 14k gold, and it can be initialized. Ear piercing is traditional in some cultures, so if you know the parents plan to pierce baby girl’s ears, go for a pair of classic studs. They can be cherished and worn for a long time. This pair isn’t explicitly religious but it’s timeless nonetheless. This sweet gift is touching and elegant without requiring you to spend a fortune. It has a cross on it and is very soft.
