For every new parent, one of the biggest milestones in their child’s life is that very special first birthday. So many changes happen in that first year for the baby and the new parents and the first birthday is a time to stand back and think, “Wow, that was one year of amazing awesomeness and the next year brings many more changes”. Today I will share with you 5 baby’s first birthday gift ideas to help you celebrate. These 1st birthday gift ideas are from parents so you can rest assured that your baby will actually use them and enjoy them.
10 Excellent First Birthday Gift Ideas
I remember my daughter’s first birthday. It was a big deal! She had us by the heartstrings (and she still does) and we wanted to have a party to help us celebrate a big year in all of our lives. We invited some of her play date babies and our friends. We decided on a strawberry shortcake type of cake with vanilla layers and fresh strawberry slices and whip cream. I think she was a little wowed by the whole event, her first cake, her first birthday song, and her first birthday presents.
My suggestion for baby’s first birthday gift ideas is lots of clothing and spread out in sizes 12-24 months because it is so practical. Then a few developmental toys for brain building and some baby gear to round out Baby’s First Birthday gifts. My little girl’s favorite first birthday present was a ball pit. It was fun for the party too! Another special gift she received was a wooden name puzzle.
The Best 1st Birthday Presents
Parents and gift-givers can make Baby’s First Birthday special just by being there and enjoying the good company. Of course Baby’s First Birthday gifts and party supplies will come in handy too! Don’t forget to take lots of photos that tell the story. Here are my 5 favorite Baby’s First Birthday gift ideas. These suggestions are from parents who know firsthand what their babies needed and enjoyed. It is best when 1st birthday presents cover the gamut from everyday, useful items to cute keepsakes to cherish.
1. Baby Clothing
This is the time when you might show your excitement to be able to move in “bigger kid” looks. Birthday boy might start sporting the button down shirts and baby girls might try some cute dresses. Alternatively you might want to milk the baby time for all it is worth and stock up on adorable rompers and footies while you can! Either way, they grow so fast during this time. It is a good idea to request a variety of sizes from 12-24 months. Baby clothes are always a great gift. Choose a cute outfit or accessories like hats, socks, or bibs. Make sure they are suitable for the baby’s age and the current season.
2. A Learning Table
Both of my kids absolutely loved their LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Tables. It was perfect for them as they were learning to stand to have a place to lean and work at that was just their height. Two huge thumbs up for the gift giver of a baby learning table as it has so many benefits developmentally! They are great for improving baby’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. One year olds are typically just starting to walk. Learning tables are useful for them have something engaging a their height. It encourages them to walk around it so their little hands can play with the different features. This is truly one of the best gifts.
3. Baby Books
You can never have too many baby books. My kids love the touch and feel books. They also love the longer rhyming books. Since they still like sticking books in their mouth at this point, I would stick with baby board books like, “Good Night Moon” or “Guess How Much I Love You?” A personalized book is a perfect gift as well.
4. Baby Toys
Stick with the classic baby toys like Blocks and Stacking Toys. Babies love these simple toys and they learn so much as they improve their hand eye coordination. Wooden toys like this shape sorters are great for teaching them about different shapes and bright colors. More fun gift ideas include a colorful ball, pull toy, and sensory toys. Look for age-appropriate toys that encourage learning and development. Items like soft building blocks, interactive books, or musical toys can be great choices.
5. Ride On Toys
From rocking horses to cozy coupes to scoot-alongs, there are so many fun choices for ride-on toys this age to enjoy. Push cars are sure to be a huge hit! They are some of the best first birthday gift ideas because they will be growing into using these more throughout the next couple of years. Consider a tricycle or big wheel or even a balance bike if you like to buy in advance because these are great for 18 months+.
Ride on toys are so much fun that kids often have trouble sharing them. A few different ones are a great idea for the party and for playdates.
6. Bonus- Baby Gear
This stuff is just as much for the parent as the baby- play room furniture, baby feeding bowls and utensils, strollers, wagons, etc. A final out of the box idea for an awesome gift is an annual pass to a children’s museum. That is sure to be among the list of any parent’s favorite things! Hours and hours of imaginative fun play time.
7. Personalized Keepsake
Consider a personalized item like a custom-made blanket, onesie, or a piece of art with the baby’s name and birthdate. Look for a customized storybook where the baby becomes the main character. It’s a fun and unique way to engage them in reading.
8. Stuffed Animals
A soft and cuddly stuffed animal can make for a comforting and cute gift. Some even come with personalized features or the baby’s birth details. My kids are teens and they still have their favorite stuffed animals from when they were babies!
9. Memory Book
Buy or create a memory book where parents can document the baby’s milestones, firsts, and special moments throughout the year.
10. Activity Gym
An activity gym with hanging toys can provide entertainment and encourage motor skills development.
Conclusion
Remember to consider safety and the baby’s developmental stage when selecting a gift. It’s also thoughtful to check with the parents to see if there’s anything specific they need or prefer for their child.
Another great way to celebrate this special milestone and prepare for Baby’s First Birthday party is to plan fun activities such as story time, photo prop fun, and mark a growth chart for your baby journal. You might want to get a special Baby’s First Birthday crown and balloon. I hope you found these ideas for best first birthday gifts helpful. What are your favorite 1st birthday gift ideas?
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PERINE LOWE says
I was very much impressed while I was touring this wonderful article. Ideas and tips are really innovative. I really appreciate LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Tables. At child to cherish’s gift store you will get fabulous product “handprints-tower-of-time-pink” for your baby’s first birthday. It is perfect for the preservation of the handprint of a child from ages one through five. This is very interesting way of preserving memories and it is also a very amazing gift option for your near and dear ones.