Babies grow at an astonishing rate during their preschool years, and as parents, we want to celebrate every single milestone along the way. From their first smile to their first day of school, each achievement is a cause for joy and pride. But with so many changes happening in such a short amount of time, it can be overwhelming to keep track of all the milestones and know which ones to celebrate. In this blog post, we will discuss the important milestones to celebrate during your baby’s preschool years and why they are significant in your child’s development.
First Smile
One of the first milestones that every parent eagerly awaits is their baby’s first smile. This usually happens around 6-8 weeks of age and is a sign that your baby is beginning to recognize and respond to people and their surroundings. It is a beautiful moment that marks the beginning of your baby’s social development. So, don’t forget to capture that first smile in a photo or video and celebrate this precious moment.
Rolling Over
As your baby grows, they will start to develop stronger muscles and gain more control over their body. Around 3-6 months, most babies learn to roll over from their back to their tummy and vice versa. This milestone is not only exciting to witness but also an important one as it helps to strengthen their core muscles and prepares them for sitting, crawling, and eventually walking. Encourage your baby’s rolling skills by placing toys just out of their reach, and celebrate when they successfully roll over to get them.
Sitting Up
Around 6-8 months, most babies learn to sit up on their own without any support. This milestone is a game-changer as it allows your baby to sit and play independently, giving them a new perspective on the world. It is also a sign that their neck, back, and core muscles are getting stronger, and they are developing the balance and coordination to sit up. Celebrate this milestone by sitting directly in front of your baby and playing with them, and watch as they discover new ways to interact with their toys.
First Words
The moment your baby utters their first word is a moment you will never forget. Typically, babies start to say simple words like “mama” or “dada” around 9-12 months. This milestone marks the beginning of their language development and shows that they are starting to understand the connection between words and meaning. Celebrate this milestone by repeating the word back to your baby and praising them with big smiles and claps, which will encourage them to keep communicating.
Milestones to Celebrate in Baby's Preschool Years
Crawling
Around 8-10 months, most babies will start to crawl, a milestone that is often met with mixed emotions by parents. On one hand, it is exciting to see your baby become more mobile and explore their environment, but on the other hand, it also means you need to be extra vigilant in baby-proofing your home. Crawling is a crucial milestone as it helps develop your baby’s gross motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness. Celebrate this milestone by creating a safe and stimulating space for your baby to crawl in and spend some quality time playing and discovering together.
Walking
Perhaps one of the most anticipated milestones is when your baby takes their first steps. This usually happens between 9-15 months, but every child is different, and some may take longer. When your baby starts to walk, it is a significant achievement as it marks the transition from being a baby to a toddler. Celebrate this milestone by holding your baby’s hand and taking those first steps together or capturing it on camera to cherish for years to come.
Potty Training
As your baby approaches their third birthday, it is time to start thinking about potty training. Every child is different, so there is no set age for this milestone, but most children are ready between 2-3 years old. Potty training is a big step in your child’s development, as it teaches them independence and self-care skills. Celebrate this milestone by making it a positive and fun experience, such as using sticker charts or letting your child pick out their own potty seat.
Starting Preschool
Another significant milestone that marks the end of your baby’s preschool years is starting school. Whether it’s preschool or kindergarten, this is a huge step in your child’s life that can bring a mix of emotions for both parent and child. It is a time for your child to learn, make new friends, and gain independence. Celebrate this milestone by taking plenty of photos on the first day of school and making a special breakfast or dinner to commemorate the occasion.
In summary, there are many milestones to celebrate during your baby’s preschool years, from their first smile to starting school. Each one plays a crucial role in your child’s development and should be celebrated to recognize their growth and achievements. As parents, it is essential to remember that every child is unique and will reach these milestones in their own time. So, enjoy the journey and cherish each moment with your little one.