Celebrating Your Child's Developmental Milestones

I remember before having children how crazy my friends would get when their baby rolled over or ate cereal for the first time. I remember thinking just that; they were nuts. I mean it is all a part of growing up, right?! Well now I have my own two children and have gone crazy, I guess. I mean, my children are going to have such high self-esteem because of how crazy we get over the smallest things. After Ava rolled over for the first time, I clapped and cheered for her like a total idiot, and then I called everyone we knew and told them how amazing she was. I would have shouted it from the rooftop if I could have gotten on the roof. I was just overjoyed for her and so amazed at how she was growing and learning new things so quickly! It seemed like we were celebrating at least one or two milestones a week for a while. Babies turn into toddlers so fast. That first year seems to fly by and is full of growth and learning. It is so amazing to witness. From rolling over, to crawling, to taking those first steps and saying those precious first words, there are so many milestones to celebrate and so many different ways to celebrate. Honestly, our celebrations usually consist of a lot of clapping, cheering, hugging and high fives, but every once in a while we might throw in a special treat or outing. Here are just a few fun ideas for celebrating your baby’s milestones, to go along with all cheering and celebration.

• Rolling Over: When your baby starts rolling over go on a picnic. We live in the south, so most times of year we are able to picnic. Lay out a blanket, sit in the sun and enjoy watching your little one practice his or her new skill, while you spend some family time together.
• Half Birthdays: For a half birthday (yes, in our family this is a milestone every year) make cookies, chocolate chip ;)
• Walking: When your little one starts walking (sniff and cheer) head out to the park. Let your baby walk to their hearts content and enjoy every second of it.
• Potty Training: This is when Ava developed her love for all things M&M. Yes, we rewarded her for going potty on the big girl potty with M&M’s. We also had a big “pee-pee party” when she first started using the potty. Every time she would go we would celebrate with party hats, horns, balloons and even a potty song. It was fun for a day and she loved it.
• Any Milestone: Most milestones would be perfect with a sweet cupcake or ice cream outing. Head to your local bakery and get a sweet treat to share with your little one.Spending the night with Grama is a great milestone treat too. Ava loves her Grama so much. It is the perfect celebration for her to go spend time over at her Grama’s house, or even spend the night.

The most important thing to remember about your babies milestones is to take time to celebrate them. Bask in the moment. They really do grow up too fast. Cherish every single milestone and know that every little one develops at their own pace and develops in their own time.

By guest blogger from Real Moms Real Views