Our favourite moments you should capture in your baby’s first year

August 12, 2021

The first days, weeks and months in your baby’s first year can fly by in a matter of moments. Anyone with kids will tell you that over time, the details about when your little one’s first tooth arrived or their first words eventually fade away. That is, unless you record the milestones as they unfold.

Not sure where to start to document your baby’s first year?

We’ve created a list of the milestones and moments you’ll want to document in their first year. And before you know it, you’ll be singing “Happy Birthday” to your little one for the first time.

At birth

Photo by Jimmy Conover/Unsplash.

The arrival of your little one will be one of the most important days of your life. And your baby’s first year will always be something special. A whirlwind of emotion, exhaustion and an overwhelming amount of love, it’s one day you’ll want to remember forever. Take note of the doctors and nurses, friends or family that were present; as they all played a role in ensuring that your delivery was a successful one.

Most importantly, as your baby gets older, they’ll become increasingly curious to learn about their arrival.

The first day your baby comes home

No matter how big or small you think something is, be sure to capture and record every moment of your baby’s first day at home. As your little one gets older, they will become more and more curious to learn about their early few days with you – and you never know what will capture their attention.

First encounters with friends and family

As you introduce your baby to your friends and family for the first time, you’ll soon realise how special these early moments are for everyone involved – and why it’s so important to record the precious moments.

Photos of you both

Photo by Sean Roy/Unsplash.

There will be plenty of moments where friends and family want to feel connected with your little one, but make sure you capture enough of your moments together, spanning across the year. One way to add a unique personal touch is to include anecdotes and stories about your shared experiences together as you navigate parenthood.

Bath time together

Photo by Michal Bar Haim/Unsplash.

As you adjust to life with a newborn, the first bath together might feel insignificant, but over time will be something you’ll cherish forever.

When your little one recognises their name

Anything your bub does for the first time is exciting, and the emotion that follows should be celebrated.

First smile or laugh

Photo by Roland Hechanova/Unsplash.

Your baby’s first smile or laugh can happen in a second and will make your heart melt – but can be tricky to capture on camera. Instead, consider adding a journal note to record this moment and mark the date.

When they start to crawl

Before you know it, your little one will be on the move.

Waving hello or goodbye

Watching your baby wave hello or goodbye with all the excitement their little arms can handle is nothing short of heartwarming.

Learning to stand

Pat yourself on the back if you manage to snap this moment for the first time when it happens.

Learning to walk

You can guarantee your baby will want to know what age they took their first steps. Film or record it the moment if you can.

New friendships

Photo by Sabina Fratila/Unsplash.

Some of these friendships that start in the early years are the ones your child will hold onto for life.

Favourite foods

What foods made them smile? When did they start eating solids? What foods did they love?

First words

The moment you’ve been waiting for – your baby’s first words – and one of the most anticipated milestones for parents.

Playtime fun

Photo by Alexander Dummer/Unsplash.

As your baby grows, they will become more and more interested in their growing collection of toys. Why not record the first time they played hide and seek with you or cracked a smile playing peek-a-boo?

First Christmas, Easter and other important holidays in our baby’s first year

Your little one might not understand who Santa or the Easter Bunny is, but that doesn’t mean you should hold back from celebrating their first holiday.

First haircut

A before and after the photo is the best way to mark their first haircut.

First holiday

Photo by Luke Michael/Unsplash.

Your first adventure together will be one you’ll never forget.

Moments in between

Photo by Katie Emslie/Unsplash.

While their major milestones and special days will be remembered for the years to follow, try and add photos to your timeline of the little moments that you’re likely to forget.

First birthday

We said it would come around sooner than later. With all the milestones that have passed, your bub deserves a family celebration.