The exact date in history when baby showers began isn't known because they are a tradition dating back hundreds of years. What is known is the impending arrival of a baby is a time of celebration for family and friends. It's an opportunity to gather around the new mom or mom-to-be and shower her with love, gifts and helpful advice.

Playing games is also a fun part of the baby shower tradition, not to mention an easy way to get acquainted with the participants. Elena Aitken, owner of Ink Blot Communications in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, agrees that playing games can be a great way to introduce the guests to one another. "Games are a good way to break the ice if people don't know each other or if there are a few people who may not feel very comfortable," she says. "It sets the mood for the entire party. It's good to be able to laugh and have fun; after all, a baby is a fun occasion."

Keep in mind when planning games at a baby shower the length of time as well as the ease of the game and instructions, says Rachel Anderson, an event planner in Corpus Christi, Texas. Games that are too involved, take too much time or are strenuous physically aren't usually a good idea. Also, games where guests are blindfolded or games that are too messy aren't as popular. Here are seven games to try at your next baby shower. 

1. Trivia Quiz games "with fairy tales and children's books as a main theme," are some good get-acquainted games – as well as being entertaining – says Marlene Castricato from New York City, a former cruise ship party planner. "What they [guests] remember and don't remember is a hoot."

2. The "Who Am I?" Game is another game to play to entertain guests. Take index cards and write either the name of a Disney character or the name of a celebrity on the card. Pin a card to the back of each guest. Guests then race against a timer to ask each other questions trying to find out which character or celebrity they are. Correct guesses win prizes such as chocolate bars, candles or travel-size bottles of lotion.

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