Traditional Etiquette

• In 1922, etiquette maven Emily Post advised readers that the ideal christening gift was an engraved silver cup or utensil set, marked with the baby's and the giver's names. Some families still follow this tradition, with a godparent normally giving the silver cup. These are still seen in gift shops, sometimes as a set of cup, fork and spoon marked "Christening Set."
  
  

Godparent Gifts

• The child's godparents are expected to give gifts of a lasting nature. In some families it is the tradition for the godparent to buy the christening outfit or a cross, even in Protestant families. Other lasting ideas are jewelry or a savings bond.
  
  

Religious Ideas

• As christening is a religious ceremony, many people like to give a religious gift. This might be a cross necklace, a child's Bible, personalized Bible or "Baby's First" Bible, a book of prayers or a charm engraved with the date of the christening. Religious stores also have plaques, statues and trinkets with christening prayers and themes.
  
  

Semi-Religious Ideas

• Some people prefer to give gifts that relate to the occasion but are more lighthearted than deeply religious in nature. Baby will enjoy anything having to do with Noah's Ark, such as a book or a toy playset. Stuffed animals are available with a commemorative T-shirt, a cuddly lamb reminiscent of the "lamb of God," or a soft, knitted blanket embroidered with the date.
  
  

Non-Religious Gifts

• There is no law that says bearers of christening gifts must bring religious themed items. No child needs five cross necklaces or five different Bibles either. If you would prefer to give a non-religious gift, it can still be special. Consider a framed share of Disney or Toys 'R Us stock, a keepsake quilt or a personalized storybook in which the child's name is inserted into the story.