When we fill out those long registry lists and stockpile our homes with newborn garments, our thoughts often fall along the lines of “I want the best for my baby.”  After all, how could you scrimp on your infant?

simple baby less stuff more mom timeThe funny thing about babies, however, is that the monetary value we assign to things is totally foreign to them. They’re like little aliens who perceive a wooden spoon as being just as valuable as a fifty dollar bamboo teether. Often they’re more impressed with a cardboard box and wrapping paper than they are with the pricey stuffed animal inside.  Most importantly, they would rather have our time and attention than any gadget under the sun.

Our purchases communicate our values.  Do we really think brand names are important?  Do we have to have the latest styles when they’ll look just as cute in last year’s fashions?  If we opt to purchase quality used gear, they won’t know the difference and we’ll also be gifting them with resourcefulness and creativity.

In fact, our babies aren’t deprived at all when we opt to buy less and buy used.  They’re learning that resources (natural and financial) need to be respected and used carefully.  Plus, they may see the positive results of delayed gratification as you have increasingly more resources to use on their education, travel and family time.

Do you under indulge with your baby?  How do friends and family react?  Do you ever feel guilty about spending less on your child?