Baby Birth Shower Woman Baby's Traditionally Family Guests

A "baby shower" is a party "thrown" (organized and held) "in anticipation of" (while waiting for something to happen) the birth of a baby. The baby shower is usually "arranged" (organized) and hosted by a close friend of the "mother-to-be" (a woman who is pregnant) a few weeks before the "due date" (the day when the baby's birth is expected).

Traditionally, only women attend baby showers, although this is changing. The women may be the friends, family members, and co-workers of the "guest of honor" (the person who is the reason for the party). They all bring gifts for the baby, such as baby clothing, toys, and diapers, or they might "chip in" (contribute to the cost by paying a small amount of money) to buy a larger item, like a crib or "stroller" (a basket that serves as a bed and/or chair for the baby, with wheels so that the mother can push it while walking).

Traditionally, the room is usually decorated with "pastel" (light colors) baby colors-pink for a girl and blue for a boy if the "gender" (sex) is known, or yellow and green if the gender is unknown. The guests "ooh and ahh" (make sounds of appreciation) while the woman is opens the gifts. They also play "baby shower games," like guessing the date of the baby's birth, competing to see who can change the diaper on doll most quickly, or trying to identify the taste of baby foods. And the guests also eat "finger foods" (small foods that can be eaten with one's hands, without silverware) and cake.