Creative & fun ways to document baby milestones

September 7, 2023  |  Photo: T. Toochinda

As a parent, you want to capture every precious moment of your baby's development, from their first word to their first steps. One way to do this is by documenting their milestones. Creating a record allows you to look back on these cherished memories in the years and decades to come. We've explored creative and fun ways to document your baby's milestones so you can capture those special moments. We encourage parents to mix it up and use more than just one method. Have fun with it!


1. Monthly Photoshoots

Monthly photoshoots are a classic and popular choice for documenting your baby's growth. Set aside time each month to capture your little one's adorable smiles and expressions. You can use a cute milestone blanket or set up a simple backdrop using a sheet or a wallpaper. To make it even more fun, dress your baby in different outfits and include props to reflect their changing personality and growth.

Luka & Lily Month Milestone Blanket
My Little J Wooden Milestone Markers

Luka & Lily Month Milestone Blanket

(Includes Props)

My Little J Wooden Milestone Markers

(Set of 25)


2. Memory Jar

Creating a memory jar is a unique and sentimental way to document your baby's milestones. Find a beautiful jar and collect small tokens that represent each milestone. These could include a lock of hair from their first haircut, their hospital bracelet, little notes of their first words or special moments spent together. By storing these items in the memory jar, you create a tangible keepsake.

Ansqu 34 oz Embossed Glass Jar
Socosy 30 oz Vintage Glass Jar

Ansqu 34 oz Embossed Glass Jar 

(Multiple Designs)

Socosy 30 oz Vintage Glass Jar

(Multiple Colors)


3. Growth Chart

A growth chart is a practical and interactive way to document your baby's physical development. Purchase or DIY a growth chart that allows you to record your baby's height and weight from their first day through their first birthday. Hang it on a wall in your home and mark their growth at regular intervals to see their developmental milestones. Not only will this help you keep track of their physical progress, but it will also serve as a visual representation of their journey from a tiny newborn to a growing toddler. Best of all, you can keep using this living document as they continue to grow.


Mibote Baby Toddler Hanging Growth Chart
Beinou Baby Growth Chart Ruler

Mibote Baby Toddler Hanging Growth Chart

Beinou Baby Growth Chart Ruler w/Wood Frame


Mom and baby milestone memory journal ideas

4. Baby Journal

A baby journal is a great way to document your baby's milestones, personality, quirks, and developmental progress from the moment they are born. In this journal, you can write down memories, special moments, and even record your thoughts and feelings as a parent. Include photographs, drawings, and mementos to make it a truly personalized keepsake. Writing in the journal regularly will allow you to look back on your baby's milestones over the years and remember the joys and challenges of their early years.

Compendium 'In This Moment' Baby Journal
Ziri & Zane Memory Scrapbook Album

Compendium 'In This Moment' Baby Journal

Ziri & Zane Memory Scrapbook Album


5. Shadow Box

A shadow box is a unique and creative way to display your baby's milestone moments. Create a shadow box by adding special items from each milestone, such as their first pair of shoes, a pacifier, and a small toy. You can also include photographs or handwritten notes. Hang the shadow box on the wall or place it on a shelf as a decoration with personal meaning.

Spiretro 11x14 Farmhouse Shadow Box
Votum Baby Keepsake Box w/Drawers

Spiretro 11x14 Farmhouse Shadow Box

Votum Baby Keepsake Box w/Drawers


6. Handprint and Footprint Record

Capturing your baby's handprints and footprints is a timeless way to document their growth. You can use a stamp or paint and paper to create a lasting memory of how small their hands and feet were in their first year. Consider using different colors or adding a date to each print to mark specific growth milestones. Frame the prints for a unique display in your home, or create a dedicated album to showcase them.


Pearhead Newborn Keepsake Frame
Pearhead Chambray Baby Album Book

Pearhead Newborn Keepsake Frame

Pearhead Chambray Baby Album Book


baby monthly photoshoot milestones by month

7. Milestone Cards

Milestone cards are a popular trend for documenting baby's milestones. These are typically small cards with pre-printed statements such as "Today I rolled over for the first time" or "I said my first word." Simply hold the card next to your little one when they achieve a milestone and capture a photo. The cards serve as an easy way to remember and document each milestone, and they can be customized or personalized to suit your style and preferences.

Heart's Sign Baby Milestone Cards
White Loft Monthly Milestone Cards

Heart's Sign Baby Milestone Cards

(24 pack)

White Loft Monthly Milestone Cards

(13 count)


8. Digital Scrapbook

In this digital age, creating a digital scrapbook is a modern and convenient way to document your baby's milestones. You can use various apps or online platforms to create a personalized and interactive digital record of your baby's development. Include photos, videos, and captions to highlight each milestone. Digital scrapbooks are easy to share with family and friends, making it a great option for those who want to document every developmental milestone of their baby's journey (even if they are far away).


Scrap Girls Design Shop


9. Time Capsule

A time capsule is a creative and imaginative way to document your baby's milestones for the future. Create a box or container filled with meaningful items, letters, and photographs that represent your baby's first year. Include predictions and wishes for their future, along with personal messages from family members and loved ones. Bury the time capsule in your backyard or store it in a safe place, and plan to open it together with your child when they reach a significant age or milestone.


Savor Baby Keepsake Organizer Box
Milestone Collection Baby Time Capsule

Savor Baby Keepsake Organizer Box

Milestone Collection Baby Time Capsule


Wrap-up: Documenting baby milestones

Documenting your baby's milestones is an exciting and rewarding way to capture the memories and celebrate their growth and development. Whether you choose to do monthly photoshoots, create a memory jar, or keep a baby journal—the important thing is to find a method that works for you and allows you to capture these memories. Consider combining different ideas or adapting them to suit you and your style. Enjoy the process and create a beautiful record of your baby's precious moments that you can treasure for years to come.

*Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

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