<P> A baby shower is a party of gift - giving or a ceremony that had different names in different cultures . It celebrates the delivery or expected birth of a child or the transformation of a woman into a mother . </P> <P> The term shower is often assumed to mean that the expectant mother is "showered" with gifts . A related custom, called a bridal shower, may have derived its name from the custom in the 19th century for the presents to be put inside a parasol, which when opened would "shower" the bride - to - be with gifts . Alternatively the term possibly denotes a "first showing" of the new baby to the wider family and circle of friends . </P> <P> Traditionally, baby showers are given only for the family's first child, and only women are invited, though this has changed in recent years, now allowing showers being split up for different audiences: workplace, mixed - sex, and feminist . Activities at baby showers include gift - giving and playing themed games . </P> <P> Baby shower games vary, sometimes including standard games such as bingo, and sometimes being pregnancy - themed, such as "guess the mother's measurements" or "guess the baby". These games help let the close friends attending the shower bond with the mother, and enable the new family to say thanks ahead of time, figuring out who is willing and able to help them with the challenges of bringing up a child . </P>

Where did wetting the baby's head come from