New Trend: Diaper Parties for Dads

We are all familiar with baby showers for new moms. A couple of years ago baby showers for grandparents were an emerging trend. Now it is showers for dads, often called Diaper Parties. The idea behind the parties is to acknowledge a major event in a man's life and to celebrate what may be a first time dad's last opportunity to freely spend much time with his buddies. Today, most dads are actively involved in day-to-day child care, from diapering to feeding to walking the floor at 3 a.m. That may not leave much time for golfing or fishing with the guys or other male bonding activities. So, why not celebrate the new life stage rather than mourn the end of dad's "freedom."

At a diaper party, each male guest usually brings a package of diapers, which can help the new parents financially for a few months. They may bring other gifts as well. What the guys do at the party depends on their personalities. For some, it may be a back yard barbeque. For others, it might be an opportunity to see their favorite sports team in action, a fishing trip, or exchanging parenting advice over burgers.

If you know someone who will be a new father, you may want to celebrate this new phase in his life with a party. Not only will it be fun, but it is a great way to show your support for him and help prepare him for the changes that are about to rock his world.