Fun Ways to Celebrate the First Birthday
Erin Burt
The first year with a new baby is an amazing journey. It definitely has its highs and its lows, and when you make it to age one, it is definitely time to celebrate!
But what do you do to make this milestone one to remember? Here are some fun ways to celebrate your baby turning one and officially becoming a toddler.
Family Day
If you’re low on a budget and want to make a memory you will all enjoy, keep it simple. Take the day off work with your spouse and spend the day just with your little family. Go to the park. Take your baby out for a cake pop. Maybe go by a local toy store and let your little one pick out a new toy. Do the things that you as a family enjoy and just make memories--don’t focus on fancy decorations or invites. I wish we would have done this with my kids, and I think we just may with our third baby who will be one this fall. Remember your baby won’t remember their first birthday, but you will.
Party Like a Rockstar
If you have a large family or lots of family and friends, consider having a party. I will admit, I did this with my older two children. Now don’t get me wrong, it was fun, but it was a lot of work. Pinterest is full of themed ideas and crafts galore to make a party unique and creative. I spent hours making banners for a sunshine theme and Mickey theme party for my kids. Was it worth it? Not sure, but we have albums of photos my kids can look back and remember. Just remember the party is for a baby. So, maybe save the bouncy house or balloon making entertainer for another year.
Get Out of Town
If you have the finances, take the time to go on a mini-vacation with your family. Travel an hour or two away and spend time together. Indoor waterparks are popular attractions for families or travel to a local city and check out the zoo or a baseball game, if the weather is cooperative. You can go on a trip to see family, too. If grandma and grandpa live a few hours away, use baby’s birthday as an excuse to go visit for a weekend. Let them spoil your little one and get a date night in, as well!
So whatever you do, remember to celebrate your little one. Make memories. Take pictures. Let them eat cake. If you really want the matching shirts and streamers, go for it. But don’t feel pressured. Do what makes you happy and what makes your little one smile. Before you know it, it will be time to celebrate another year!
Karyn Meyerhoff is a mom of three in Arkansas. She loves birthday cake!
