Gift for Buddhist Baby Naming Ceremony?

Although I converted to Christianity, I grew up Buddhist. Your idea of respecting the religion of the parents is such a good one! I believe something like a small plant (perhaps bonsai tree) and a savings bond (which you mentioned having given to the other baby's family) might be good ideas. There are many different sects of Buddhism as there are with Christianity, but those I know of all value life of all living things like plants. Thanks for considering and for asking such a good question.

Since Buddhism is much about minimalism and simplicity, I would recommend not overindulging. There are some fantastic children's story books available that teach simple Buddhist truths, and I'm sure they'd be appreciated. Try "Buddha at Bedtime", "Zen Shorts", and "Zen Ties"--they are all favorites in our home (and the last two are beautifully illustrated, sweet simple stories about a panda named Stillwater--LOVE HIM). A simple Amazon search will find these and other great options.
~M.

I'd suggest planting a tree or bush in the baby's name. You could contact The Nature Conservancy. I think they could help with this.
L. M

Is it being held at a temple of some sort or do they attend somewhere? Call and ask for ideas.

Off the top of my head I would suggest a small charm. I would ask your cousin for some gift ideas. Its better to ask and seem silly than to not ask and offend.

M.

I don't suppose there's a local buddhist temple you could call? I don't know if there's a traditional gift, but you could always do the equivalent and find a children's book on Buddhism, a mala, which are prayer beads, and a savings bond.

I've been at the ceremony, but don't remember what gifts were given.

If they are Asian, a common gift is cash in a red packet/envelope. It's called a hong bao (red packet). Just make sure the amount is even (for example $10, $20) but not with the number 4 (4 means death). However, I'm sure a savings bond would also be an appreciated and appropriate gift. A gold (yellow gold, not white) necklace or bracelet is also a good gift. Jade is also commonly given but there's good jade and bad jade so if you're not familiar with jade, I wouldn't venture into that.

Hope this helps.