What Is a Baby Sprinkle?

Most of us are familiar with baby showers. We know what to expect, we know to shop off the expecting parents’ registry, and we know to come prepared to play baby-themed games once the party rolls around. 

In recent years, however, more and more second-time parents are opting out of the traditional baby shower and embracing the newer baby sprinkle trend. In short, baby showers and baby sprinkles are very similar. However, sprinkles are intended for growing families that may not need all the first-timer basics typically gifted at a full-blown shower. 

If you or someone you love is expecting their second child, throwing a baby sprinkle is a great way to show you care and ensure the couple feels the love and support of their community. Here’s what you need to know to throw the perfect sprinkle.

Baby Sprinkles vs Baby Showers: What’s the Difference?

1. Who They’re For: Baby sprinkles are a better fit for parents welcoming another child into the family, rather than those preparing to have their first. Showers are hosted to literally “shower” parents with gifts and stock them up with everything they need. Experienced parents may not need quite as many goodies this time around, which is why a sprinkle would be a better option.
2. Decorations and Themes: Baby showers are typically more elaborate and tend to have a specific theme pertaining to the new baby. Sprinkles, on the other hand, are more casual get-togethers that don’t require a theme or games if the host doesn’t wish to plan them.
3. Registries: Unlike traditional showers, there are usually no registries created for a baby sprinkle. Parents can certainly jot down a list of items they may need, although guests will typically stick to the basics when bringing a gift for the event (e.g., diapers, meals, or even cash).
4. Event Size: When first-time parents are being celebrated at a shower, it makes sense to go all out and invite a ton of people. For sprinkles, on the other hand, it’s better to keep the guest list a bit smaller and focus on inviting only close friends and family.
5. When It’s held: Baby showers are typically held earlier in the pregnancy to allow the new parents plenty of time to organize and sort through all the gifts they receive. Sprinkles are held a bit closer to the new baby’s due date, as they’re more laid back and won’t leave the parents with mountains of new goodies to sort through after the party’s over.

How To Throw a Baby Sprinkle

1. Timeline & Preparation

If you’re planning to host a baby sprinkle, give yourself plenty of time to prepare the perfect gathering. These get-togethers can be as jazzy or as casual as you’d like, so have some fun with it and set up a realistic timeline for your planning. 

This is the stage to create a guest list and select a date that works best for you and the expecting couple. You can also ask the couple if they have any preferences on food, decor, activities, or if they’d prefer you take the reins on making those decisions. Since they’re busy parents, you can reasonably expect them to opt for the latter! However, it’s always best to check.

2. Send Out Invites

When you’re about two weeks out from your chosen date, it’s time to send out the invitations. This timeframe gives guests plenty of notice to make sure they can be there. You’re more than welcome to send these invitations out earlier, but remember that some people may forget to RSVP if the invites go out too soon. 

3. Plan the Menu, Games & Decor

Now that you have a few weeks to plan, take this time to choose a menu and select a theme. You don’t need to go over the top with either of these. However, it can be fun to lean into the party planning and put together an event tailored to the expecting parents’ tastes. This stage is also a great time to brainstorm some games and activities to keep everyone entertained at the sprinkle.

4. Host the Perfect Sprinkle

Now that you’ve finalized all the planning details, it’s time for the big day. If you follow the steps above and ensure that everything is organized and ready to go, the baby sprinkle should be relaxing and enjoyable for everyone in attendance (including you!).

Bear in mind, these events are intended to be a bit more laid-back and intimate. Don’t feel the pressure to go too big with any decor, themes, or fancy menus. Instead, focus on giving the expecting parents a special day to celebrate with the ones they love most.

What Gifts Are Appropriate for a Sprinkle?

If you’ve never hosted or been to a baby sprinkle before, choosing a gift may seem like a daunting task. The bottom line is that you’ll want to ensure you’re getting something the parents can actually use. Here are a few ideas to consider as you shop for the growing family. 

Meal Train 

Having two or even three little ones under their roof means the parents of the newbie probably have little to no time to take care of themselves. Setting up a meal train with the other people in attendance is a great way to show you care and ensure your friends or family members stay well-fed and nourished as they get accustomed to their new normal.

Clothes 

While the parents may already have some clothing items stocked away for their other children, it’s always nice to gift them with some new, high-quality products. Loulou Lollipop’s Sleepers collection offers plenty of cute and cozy designs for you to select the perfect gift.

Diapers & Wipes 

Parents can attest - there are never enough diapers and wipes. By choosing to purchase these basics, you can head to the party safe in the knowledge your gifts will be gratefully received!

Food Essentials 

Feeding two little ones at the same time calls for reinforcements. To help dinner time run as smoothly as possible, consider gifting a Long Sleeve Bib for easy clean up and enjoyable meal times. 

Babysitting Coupons

While the parents get settled in with their new addition, a lovely and practical gift idea is to offer to take their firstborn off their hands for a few hours, so they can have some one-on-one time with their new baby. This gift won’t cost you anything except time, and it’s a brilliant chance for you to bond with their other child, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Point of a Baby Sprinkle?

Baby Sprinkles are typically intended for second-time parents. They’re a smaller and more intimate gathering thrown to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a second (or third!) baby. Traditional baby showers are intended to “shower” the new parents with essentials and gifts, whereas a sprinkle is a lower-key event that involves fewer gifts and good company.

Who Usually Throws a Baby Sprinkle?

Typically, the couple's family and/or friends will host a baby sprinkle. The hosts will be responsible for curating a guest list, selecting a theme, creating and sending out invitations, and all other tasks involved in planning a gathering. 

What Is the Etiquette for a Baby Sprinkle?

Traditional baby showers often carry certain expectations when it comes to etiquette, whereas a baby sprinkle is intended to be more casual and laid-back. Since the expecting parents may already have one or two children of their own, this gathering is supposed to be a celebration of love and excitement for the new addition to the family.

Baby Sprinkles Celebrate Growth, Strengthen Bonds, and Spread Joy

Baby sprinkles are excellent gatherings to celebrate a growing family and show the parents some extra love during this exciting season of life. Take note of the steps spelled out above, and you’re on your way to hosting the perfect event! Be sure to check out Loulou Lollipop for some wonderful gifts that the parents are sure to love.