I am a new parent who just emerged from the first few months of infant life, commonly called the newborn stage. It was filled with rich emotions, a lack of sleep and a total realignment of priorities.

What made it easier was the kindness and generosity of friends and family, who sent us positive messages and occasional gifts. I’ve written gift guides for years, and as a new parent, I am freshly aware of certain gifts that were exceedingly helpful to me and my family in those first few…