Congratulations! You have made it through your first year of parenting.
Whether you are a first time mum or your little one is joining a team of brothers and sisters… This is such a memorable milestone, deserving special celebrations!
It is incredible how much babies develop and change in their first year, from the moment you hold them for the first time, through all of the other beautiful “firsts” you will remember forever - including their first BIG birthday!
So ready to make it extra-special?
Here is our list of 5 first birthday ideas for your baby!
First Birthday Ideas: Create a “time capsule”
Creating a memory box or a time capsule is a beautiful way of documenting your little one’s first year: get a sturdy container, like a metal tin or a plastic box to house these items securely, and decorate the time capsule with your baby's name and birth date for a personalized touch.
Include in your box any special keepsakes, then bury or hide it in a safe place until they are older - and surprise them with it!
Here is a small list of things you could include in the time capsule:
Photos - lots and lots of photos, as these become even more precious as the time passes. Of course, if you had a newborn photoshoot with them don’t forget to include those photos!
A newspaper from the day of their birthday or (alternative) a local newspaper from the same week.
Ask grandparents and other family members to write letters you can include in the box, and if baby has young siblings they can create some drawings instead!
You can of course also include things like a favorite toy or their special outfit.
Outdoor Picnic Party
This might sound a little old-fashioned, but family time spent outdoors is always special!
For an unforgettable outdoor picnic party, set up a cosy blanket under the shade of a big tree, so you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Make sure to pack a picnic basket filled with delicious snacks like sandwiches, fruits, cheese, and refreshing drinks. Don't forget to bring along some games and activities to keep everyone entertained, especially if older siblings are part of the crew!
Remember to bring a trash bag to clean up afterward and leave no trace behind. Enjoy the fresh air, the company of loved ones, and the simplicity of a lovely outdoor picnic. It's a beautiful way to celebrate and create lasting memories on your special occasion.
First Birthday Ideas: Baby-Friendly Sensory Play
Sensory play is a fantastic way to help your little one explore the world around them. Set up a simple sensory bin with items like uncooked rice, soft fabric scraps, and textured balls. Let your baby touch and feel the different textures, stimulating their sense of touch and curiosity. You can also create a DIY sensory board using materials like faux fur, sandpaper, and bubble wrap to introduce new tactile experiences.
Another fun activity is making sensory bottles by filling clear bottles with water, glitter, and small toys. Secure the lids tightly and let your baby shake and giggle at the mesmerising effects. This activity isn't only entertaining but also helps develop your baby's visual tracking skills.
For a mess-free option, try sensory bags filled with hair gel, food coloring, and small objects like beads. Seal the bags and let your baby squish and move the gel around, creating a sensory delight.
Sensory play encourages exploration, boosts cognitive development, and provides a sensory-rich environment for your baby to learn and grow… the perfect way to enter their second year of life!
Storybook Character Theme
Next in the list of our first birthday ideas: a storybook!
Yes, you read that right - many companies these days offer the option of creating a personalised storybook for your baby. If you don’t know any yet, Wonderbly is one of the most popular options and offers a wide range of options (for babies and adults).
A first birthday photoshoot
Our list of first birthday ideas wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a First Birthday Photoshoot to capture this special milestone.
Get ready for a messy and fun-filled adventure that will also give your family some stunning portraits of your little one’s growing personality! This adorable photoshoot involves letting your baby loose on a beautifully decorated cake, allowing them to dig in, smash, and create a delightful mess. It's a fantastic way to capture some truly memorable and candid photos that you'll cherish for years to come.
Your Cake Smash Photoshoot at our studio also includes “clean” portraits before the cake is brought in and a final “splash” in our miniature bath tub.
To learn more about capturing your baby’s first birthday with a Cake Smash Photoshoot visit our First Birthday page or get in touch!