Being invited to the christening is an honour and responsibility, because on this day the child enters the community of believers and receives his spiritual patron. Initially, christeners are called to become second parents to the child, to help him in his spiritual growth and always be there for him. But what gift will be appropriate on this day, especially if you want to avoid banality and give something special? In this article there will be ideas that we have collected in one article.
Religious gifts
A traditional and meaningful way to mark this important day in a child’s life. They often include items that serve as a reminder of the religious significance of the moment.
- Icons:
The most traditional and common gift. An icon depicting the saint whose name the child will receive, or another saint of special significance to the family, can be a wonderful gift. The icon can be kept in the home, thus creating the presence of the saint and providing protection.
- Cross:
Jewellery with a religious theme, such as crosses, is another popular gift. They are usually made of gold or silver and can be adorned with precious stones.
- Kryzhma:
A kryzhma is a white swaddling cloth used during the rite of baptism. It symbolises the purity and innocence of the child. It is kept as an heirloom after the rite.
- Bibles and children’s Bible stories:
For older children, books with children’s Bible stories can be a great gift. It will help them better understand the stories and lessons of the Bible.
- Religious lockets:
This is another form of jewellery that can be given as a christening gift. Medallions can have a picture of a saint, angel or other religious symbol.
It is important to remember that when choosing a religious gift, you should be respectful of the family’s beliefs and traditions.
Gifts from a godparent
As a godparent, you should take special care in choosing a gift. One option is jewellery, a cross on a chain for example, bracelets engraved with the child’s name or pendants with the date of baptism. These can become family heirlooms and be passed down from generation to generation.Another good idea is to open a savings account in the child’s name. This is a gift that will continue to provide benefits in the future, and will help the child when they grow up.
Gifts from the godmother
In many cultures and religious traditions, especially Orthodox Christianity, the godmother has a special role in the baptism and has certain responsibilities regarding gifts. Some of the most significant gifts that are traditionally given by the godmother include a kryzhma, an icon, and a baptismal shirt.This is another traditional gift that a godmother may give to a godchild. A baptismal shirt, also known as a “linen”, is often handmade and decorated with delicate embroidery. It is the garment in which the child is dressed after the rite of baptism.These gifts have not only practical but also deeply symbolic meaning, and they represent the bond between godparents and child, and the child with his or her religious faith.
Gifts from relatives and friends
In addition to gifts from godparents, other relatives and friends may also want to give something special for the christening. Here are some ideas:
Idea 1: Gift voucher for a professional photo shoot
This is an especially valuable gift for young parents. These memories can be preserved and enjoyed for years to come.
Idea 2: A set of eco-friendly baby products
Consisting of natural soap, shampoo, organic cotton nappies and other items. This is a practical and caring gift.
Idea 3: Hand-painted clothes
You can order hand-painted baby clothes from an artist. These can be fun and colourful drawings that your child is sure to love.
Idea 4: A set of musical instruments for children
Musical instruments for kids such as tambourines, maracas and bells can be a great gift. They help develop musical hearing and motor skills, and are just plain fun to play with.
Idea 5: My First Year Gift Set
This can be a beautifully designed set that includes a photo album, a frame for hand and foot prints, and even a box for the first strand of hair.
Idea 6: Time Capsule
Buy or make your own time capsule to place today’s items in it: newspapers, coins, letters or photos. You can then offer to open it when the child reaches a certain age.
Idea 7: A plant or tree kit
This symbolises the growth and development of the child. Choose a plant that can be planted and carefully tend it with your child. It can be flower seeds, fruit trees or even bamboo.
Idea 8: Rattle toys made of natural materials
Rattle toys made of natural materials, such as wood or bamboo, are not only an entertaining gift for your baby, but also safe. They come in different shapes and sizes and can be made in the form of animals, plants or abstract shapes to stimulate your baby’s visual development.
Idea 9: Quality baby clothes
Clothes are always a relevant christening gift. But you can make it more unique by choosing things made of natural materials, such as organic cotton, or with unusual and interesting prints. These can be sets of clothes, dresses or baby suits.
Idea 10: Personalised plush toys
Soft toys are always popular among children, but you can make the gift more special by choosing a plush toy embroidered with the child’s name and the date of his baptism.
Unique and original christening gifts for boys and girls
Different gift ideas that not only stand out for their originality, but also allow you to show your individuality and special attention to detail when choosing a christening gift. Whatever you choose, it’s important to remember that the most valuable thing about a gift is the love and care you put into choosing it.
For a girl:
- Jewellery Set: A set of precious metal earrings, bracelet and necklace that a girl can wear when she is older. This can become a family heirloom that is passed down from generation to generation.
- Vintage toy or doll: This can not only be a favourite toy, but also a great piece of furniture that the child will treasure for a lifetime.
- Handmade kit: This can be a kit for knitting, embroidery or bead making. It will help develop the girl’s creative abilities and give her the opportunity to create something unique on her own.
- A personalised story book: A book where the main character is a girl with the child’s name on it. This can be an especially treasured gift that she will treasure for years to come.
- Stargazing Kit: Give a stargazing kit that includes a telescope and a book about astronomy. This can be the beginning of his journey towards scientific exploration and love of space.
For a boy:
- A coin set: You can pick up a series of coins from different countries or with a special theme. This can be the start of a coin collection and develop a boy’s interest in history and geography.
- Tree: If you have the opportunity, plant a tree in honour of your godson. You can photograph its growth and development with your child, which will create a unique story and memento.
- Personalised football: If the child’s parents are football fans, a football jersey with the boy’s name and number can be a great gift.
- Science kits: Gift a kit for a young scientist – this could be a chemistry, physics or biology kit. This will help in developing the boy’s curiosity and cognitive interests.
- A personalised comic book: Have an artist create a personalised comic book with your godson as the main character. This can be a great and original gift that he will keep as a memento.
Choosing a gift for a christening is always an extremely individual process, because it is important to take into account not only the age of the child and the circumstances of the celebration, but also the views of his parents, their personal preferences and budget. However, no matter what gift you choose, remember that the most important thing is the sincere feelings and good wishes that you put into it.
Always strive to ensure that your gift is not just a material expression of attention, but also carries a piece of your warmth, love and care. A gift chosen with heart will be appreciated and remembered for years to come.
I hope my list of ideas will help you make the right choice and bring joy to the baby and his parents on this special day.
