The first months and years of your baby’s life can pass by in a bit of a blur. Your newborn will develop and grow pretty rapidly, changing from a tiny bundle to a smiling, talking and walking little person, right in front of your eyes.
With a new baby, every single day can bring with it something to celebrate, but of all the baby milestones there are some you will certainly never forget. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll be there to witness them all – so keep your camera close at hand – here are the baby milestones you won’t want to miss!
Baby’s first smiles
Ok, with this one you’re likely to have a few false starts along the way.
Whilst most newborn baby smiles are more likely to be involuntary movements caused by gas, that first genuine smile is truly a moment to behold. Normally in response to ‘peek-a- boo’, tickling or in response to singing their favorite song, your baby’s whole face will light up as they smile back at you. If you’re lucky, you may even get a little giggle added in for good measure. No matter how sleep deprived you may be, seeing that genuine love and happiness back from your baby can make all those sleepless nights feel like a distant memory.
Baby’s first tooth
It’s fair to say you’ll probably know about that first pearly white long before it actually makes an appearance, as teething can make your baby feel a little out of sorts. Whilst teething can be an uncomfortable experience for your baby, soon that little white peg will finally break through the surface, starting their journey towards weaning. There is nothing cuter than a little toothy grin and brushing a few solitary teeth before bed.
Rolling from tummy to back
Tummy time is really valuable for your baby and watching them twist and turn on a playmat as they reach up for items above their head is pretty impressive to observe. The moment when they roll over (whether initially by accident or on purpose) is definitely a milestone worth celebrating. This means your baby is developing some core strength, able to lift their own head and rotate their body without assistance. Once your baby can roll repeatedly or twist to retrieve their favourite toy, they are well on their way to learning how to move.
Sitting unsupported
Watching your baby sit unaided for the very first time is likely to result in lots of praise and cheers. It may take some practice and you can certainly expect them to be a little like a ‘weeble’ for the first few weeks of trying, so you may want to ensure you have plenty of pillows for a soft landing. Before you know it, the support and props can be taken away, with your baby gaining control of their balance, happily sitting and playing with their toys independently. Definitely worth snapping a photo for.
First words
Ok, I think in most cases we know their first word will be – ‘Dada’ – but don’t take it personally. Mama unfortunately is much harder to say and requires a bit more effort with their lips to form the sound. That said, whatever their first word will be, there is something truly special about those first responses – particularly when they’re said in context. Seeing your baby reach out and say your name, point to their teddy or even spot the car can be pivotal moments that are certainly worthy of the memory book.
First Steps
Last but by no means least, your baby’s first steps are a moment that will be ingrained in your memory forever. After cruising around the furniture, holding your hand or using a walker, your baby will suddenly feel confident enough to try mastering walking on their own, taking a few wobbly and tentative steps towards you. Once they’ve mastered the art, they’ll be no stopping them – and trust me that is when the fun really begins!
It’s worth remembering that all babies are different and as such, every milestone will be reached at the right time for them. It’s also important not to forget the small things – with our list of alternative milestones worth celebrating here.
Which baby milestones are you looking forward to the most?
