I've bought and received lots of new baby gifts and, by far, my favorite is "Baby's First Photo Album." Our first son received this when he was just a few months old and he just loved it. Our second son loved it just as much and we were very surprised at how well it lasted despite being thrown, chewed on, carried around, slept with, and "read" many, many times. We're still holding onto our album today, just in case we decide to have number three!
At first, it was just a colorful toy to chew on. As our babies grew, it was fun to watch their expressions as they recognized the people on each page. Once they started talking, they both really enjoyed turning each page and naming the people who love them.
This is an especially great toy for babies whose grandparents and other loved ones live far away. Just having photos on the wall or refrigerator doesn't help small children learn names and faces nearly as well as having their own photo album.
We wholeheartedly recommend this kind of soft-sided photo album for your own babies or small children as well as for baby and baby shower gifts.