Top 12 Milestones From Baby’s First Year

1. Head Control
I’ll never forget the first time he picked his head up and looked at me. The moments when I was cradling him and suddenly realized he didn’t need me to support his head the way he once did. It’s the first thing your baby “outgrows” besides the newborn clothes. This milestone often goes unnoticed by the rest of the family, but moms remember.

2. Smiles
The very first real smile is priceless. I was blessed to be the recipient of my son’s first smile and I can’t wait to see my second baby smile at me. The innocent joy that fills your heart in that moment is something I hope I never forget. Don’t forget to put it in the baby book.

3. Rolls Over
It’s always a little surprising when they start rolling over. The first time my son did it, he was on a blanket in the living room having “tummy time.” I had walked to the kitchen for a glass of water, when I returned his little feet were under the couch. He had rolled across the floor! I was thrilled and a little concerned. That evening we excitedly watched as he did it again and again. Then we started baby proofing.

4. Toys
Soon after they learn to grasp that first rattle, they begin to play with toys instead of just observe life. I could sit for hours and watch my infant play with his toys. It’s mesmerizing to me. There’s something very special about the first toys. My son discovered a sock monkey when he was between three and four months old. It’s been his favorite ever since.

5. Waves Bye
By the time they master the wave, you’re getting lots of smiles and eye contact. You’ve probably even heard some adorable giggles. The wave is an extra special form of communication. It’s one step before verbalization. Be sure to snap a picture.

6. First Food
This memory is so well known that family members actually fight to be the one who gives baby his first food. At six months old, it’s safe for children to have their first foods. I’ll never forget my son’s avocado covered face! If you have the opportunity, this is the perfect moment for the video camera. Whether you video or not, you’ll never forget baby’s first food.

7. Sits Up
For months, you’ll be helping your little angel sit up. You’ll probably use pillows or infant support seats to help him “practice.” Then one day, baby won’t need those anymore. Your little cherub will be sitting up all by himself!

8. Talks
The first word is one you’ll always remember. It’s usually “mama” or “dada,” but some babies get creative. My son’s first word was “mama,” much to my delight, but soon after he learned “dada” and he said it all the time. Parents can get into some pretty silly debates about who was called by name first when baby is older. Be sure to write it in the baby book, so there’ll be no disputes down the line.

9. Crawls
If your baby isn’t crawling, you’ll be waiting with bated breath. You will try anything and everything to get your little guy or girl moving. Then one day it will happen. If you haven’t baby proofed by then, hurry. As moms with older children will be quick to tell you, once they start moving, they don’t slow down!

10. Stands
The first step on the journey to taking the first step is standing. At first your little one will stand supported by your hands and then begin to pull up on things like the couch. Be sure to keep the camera at hand, these are some great photo opportunities, and if you’re lucky you might also catch the first step!

11. First Tooth
Although many babies are very fussy in the months leading up to cutting their first teeth, there is joy in discovering that first pearly white! All the sleepless nights with a teething baby are suddenly worth it when you see that adorable little grin now complete with one or two cute little baby teeth! If your baby doesn’t get teeth until later, don’t fret, most dentists suggest that the later children get their teeth, the healthier their teeth will be.

12. First Step
This doesn’t always happen in the first year, but it can. If you’re lucky enough to see your little guy or girl take steps in the first year, be sure to get some video or pictures. Everyone in the family will want to see her toddling across the floor. Just look out, now she’ll be into everything! Once you’ve reached this milestone, you’ll know what all mothers learn: babies don’t keep and time is a thief, so savor each and every milestone memory.