As a parent, you'll be pleased to know that preserving precious newborn memories has never been easier.
Time Flies
Even though you're spending your days in a sleep-deprived haze, the first few months of your child's life are likely to pass much quicker than you might expect. In fact, many parents who are sending their children off to college remark that it seems like just yesterday they were still wearing diapers!
Preserving Newborn Memories
There are many different ways you can make sure memories of your child's first days are not forgotten. A journal and a photo album are the most traditional methods of memory preservation, but they aren't your only options. For example:
- Make a scrapbook of your memories of your child's first days. Visit LoveToKnow Scrapbooking for tips and project ideas.
- Make a video diary detailing important milestones, such as the day you brought your child home from the hospital or the first time he or she ate solid food.
- Invest in a stylish shadow box to turn letters, cards, rattles, and tiny baby clothes into artwork for your home.
- Buy a large storage trunk to use as a "time capsule" for important baby memorabilia. Set a special day, such as graduation from high school, when you plan to give the box to your child.
- Purchase a large wall calendar to use to record notes about the cute things your baby does on a daily basis. Decorate with baby-themed stickers or mini prints of your favorite baby pictures for a quick and easy keepsake.
- Use MySpace or a blog to share pictures and funny stories about your baby with friends and family who live far away. Then, print out copies of your entries to add to your son or daughter's baby book. Visit LoveToKnow Social Networking to learn more about this method of communication.
Check out these helpful tips for downloading the printable Baby Milestones Book.
Tips for Memory Projects
Regardless of how you choose to preserve memories of your baby's growth and development, the job will be easier if you remember these simple tips:
- Set aside a specific time to record your thoughts. For example, you may wish to spend an hour or so writing down important memories at the first of every month. This will ensure that you don't end up hopelessly behind in your project.
- Handwritten letters are more personal, but it's fine to use a computer if you feel more comfortable typing your thoughts. If you're not confident in your spelling and grammar skills, word processing software can also provide assistance in these areas.
- Write from the heart. When it comes to preserving newborn memories, don't be afraid to be sentimental. There is nothing in the world that compares to the bond between a parent and child.
- If you're having trouble deciding what memories are most important, think about the things your parents included in your own baby book as well as the details you wish they would have recorded about your childhood.
- Don't let insecurity about your writing ability, photography skills, or crafting talents keep you from recording your thoughts about the experience of raising your child. Remember that your son or daughter won't be "grading" your efforts; the fact that you took the time to create a special keepsake is enough.
- Don't overlook the importance of everyday things. While most parents remember to record birthday parties, Christmas gifts, and special holiday celebrations, the smaller everyday moments still have value as well. Your child's funny mannerisms, relationships with siblings, and favorite toys are details that deserve a prominent place in the record of your family history.
- Make preserving newborn memories a group effort. Ask family, friends, and other special people in your baby's life to contribute their own memories to your project.
