• All babies share the basic need for sleep, nourishment, entertainment and security. However, babies who belong to ethnic communities may require another thing: an environment where they can accept and love their cultural identity. A child who grows up proud of his African American culture also learns to be proud of himself. A gift-giver may pave the way to this ideal by seeking out unique gifts for African American babies.
  
  

Beddings

• Pillows, bolsters, blankets and comforters make popular gifts because they provide babies with warmth and comfort. To make such gifts more special, look for quality fabrics that have African American patterns. An infant surrounded by these unique designs will find solace in them as he grows older, associating positive feelings with similar cultural artifacts. Consisting mostly of asymmetrical patterns, bold colors and big geometric shapes, African American patterns are most evident in quilts. African American quilting has a rich historical tradition. Quilts represent the African people's beliefs and their struggle and triumph in America. African American quilts make extraordinary gifts because they highlight history and religion woven together. Folk belief claims that such a quilt can also serve as a charm to protect the baby against evil.
  
  

Toys

• Playtime exerts a big influence in the development of children. Stuffed African animals, such as lions and giraffes, will draw an African American child closer to his roots. Furthermore, giving wooden toys or dolls that African American artists have crafted will not only support cultural art but also immerse children further to the treasures of their culture. Commercially produced dolls or action figures in the image of African Americans make good presents. According to Janice Hale, an author and educator in the field of early childhood development, such toys represent a victory for African Americans. "When a female or a male picks up a dark-skinned doll to play with and loves that doll, they are learning to love themselves," she says.
  
  

Educational Materials

• It is never too early to educate a child, or at least to prepare her for what goes on in the outside world. Educational materials that engage the senses will be a hit for babies and their parents. Picture books that display African American characters can jumpstart the baby's future library. A baby board book that should be part of a child's collection is The Snowy Day, a Caldecott Award-winning work written by Ezra Jack Keats and first published in 1962. It is the first book to feature an African American boy as its protagonist. In addition to books, another gift idea is a music album produced by African American artists for babies. Attractive flash cards that showcase prominent figures in African American history, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks, will also give a baby great role models as he grows older.