Baby Fever...

Sometimes, just perusing baby gifts and toys can ignite baby fever in even the most un-maternal of people. And since 2011, when psychology professors Gary and Sandra Brase conducted a study "designed to figure out if baby fever actually exists," we know that baby fever is real, that it develops in both men and women, and that its intensity varies based on personal context. 

After surveying 80 college students of various ages, the Brases concluded that baby fever is often driven by "an emotional signal that subconsciously hints to the brain that it might be a good time to have a baby." The more positive exposure to babies one has — scratch all imagery of dirty diapers and incessant wailing — the more the desire to have children is felt. This transcends gender lines, and seems pretty logical in the sense that, while childbearing is a natural and biological facet of human nature, not everyone is always so inclined to start a family. 

The Brases concluded that "people's desires to have children is most influenced by the positive and negative interactions and the trade-offs." To most, the blessings of parenthood outweigh the inconveniences, like financial and personal freedom — although American women are having fewer and fewer babies. It's an interesting phenomenon to think about among our ever-changing world population.

Nevertheless, if you do find yourself coming down with a serious case of baby fever, have no fear. Our baby apparel, toys and gifts are perfect for obsessing over (and moderating your affliction.) I've picked some of my favorite baby products, handmade by our artisan partners, to share.

A fair warning: the products presented become increasingly more adorable.

The Best Baby Shower Gifts!

The perfect baby shower gift and interactive toy for any child. These Felt ABC blocks join fair trade principles with educational play to create the best kind of playtime between parent and baby. Sold as a set of three, each purchase supports sustainable employment for Nepali women artisans. Shop our Felt ABC Blocks here. 

Alpaca wool onesize overalls. Need I say more?! 

This cuddly, super soft onesie overall is the perfect winter accessory for your little one. With four easy-to-change shell buttons at the crotch, this holiday favorite makes changing diapers easy and keeps your baby warm. Handwoven by women artisans in Peru, our baby alpaca overalls are sure to have everyone swooning. Just sling on the scalloped straps with a braided chest detail and you're ready to go! Shop the cutest playtime outfit here.

Children love barn animals. As a little one, there's something so thrilling about matching animal names to their sounds. That's why these sweet organic cotton toys are the perfect companions for your baby or tot! Our roly-poly chicks and piggies are hand-knit in Peru and very soft to the touch. Moms: you can rest assured knowing that these cute toys are made from organic cotton and colored only with natural dyes. 

Here's a customer's review: "There is no way my daughter will love this little guy as much as I do, but I'm hoping she will gain a good bit of affection for him. This cuddly little toy is very well made and great for chewing on. Our daughter is a little on the destructive side and this has held together quite excellently. We are very pleased with our purchase and grateful to be able to support the women in Peru!"

Shop all of our organic cotton toys from Peru here. 

Okay, SERIOUSLY?!

I don't know why tiny sock booties are so wholesome and perfect, but they are. These are our Striped Knit Alpaca Booties, sure to keep the toesies of your little one toasty in the wintertime. Available in light grey, dark grey and green. Keep your child even cozier with matching Alpaca Baby Hats and Alpaca Baby Mittens! 

Finally, keep your baby entertained and playful with our hanging mobiles, perfect for hanging above your baby's crib. No need for a trip across the world when your Aussie favorites can swing in your own room! These handmade koala friends are crafted from alpaca wool by Peruvian women artisans. The three sweet and sleepy friends are the perfect gift that gives back for your child's nursery or playroom. All you need is some eucalyptus for their snack time. 

We also have pandas....

Check out this sweet customer review: "This thing is adorable in person. The pictures are great, but it is so cute in real life! We have been using it on my daughter's car seat recently where she loves playing with it and chewing on the cute little pandas. Hoping that it stays together for many years to come!" 

Shop our hand-knit hanging mobiles for kids here.

We hope this has pacified some baby fever (pun intended), or at least helped you select a great gift for your next baby shower. Happy gifting!