From first words to first cartwheels, from conquering scissors to mastering the art of finally sitting through a whole family dinner without running laps (mostly), your little one has grown and achieved so much. But how do we celebrate that growth?

Here’s 4 ideas of how to mark those milestones:

 

1. Create a Memory Jar

Remember those little wins you thought you'd never forget? Like when they finally tied their own shoelaces or helped tidy up without being asked (miracles do happen). Capture those moments!

Get an empty jar (or a box, or even a pretty bag), some paper, and colourful pens. Sit down as a family and jot down all the memories that make you smile from this year. You’ll end up with a jar of joy to open together at the start of next year - cue the giggles and happy tears!

Magical Tip: Get the kids involved in decorating the jar. Glitter glue and stickers work wonders!

 

2. Make a Mini Photo Book

Scroll back through your camera roll and pick 12 highlights, one for each month. Print them out and make a mini book together.

Let the kids decide on captions or add little notes about their favourite parts of each photo. Not only does this create a keepsake, but it’s also a great way to build storytelling skills and show them how far they’ve come.

Cheeky Twist: Include some “blooper” photos too - after all, not every day is picture perfect, and that’s half the fun.

 

3. Set Family Goals for 2024

Forget the grown-up resolutions that last until mid-January. Instead, sit down as a family and come up with fun, achievable goals.

It could be learning a new skill together (baking banana bread without setting off the smoke alarm, anyone?), starting a family game night, or trying something new like geocaching. Make it playful, personal, and something to look forward to.

Extra Fun: Let each family member have their own "mini goal." Even your toddler can get involved - “keep my socks on all day” is totally valid!

 

4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Here’s the thing: it’s not about whether they nailed their handwriting or remembered their 2 times table. It’s about celebrating the effort, the courage to try, and the joy in the journey.

Take time to tell your child the things you’ve noticed this year - how they helped their friends, the new words they’ve learned, or how much braver they’ve become.

Parent-to-Parent Reminder: You’re doing amazing too. Your little one’s growth is thanks to you, so give yourself a pat on the back too.

 

Reflect, Recharge, Repeat!

The start of a new year is a time to pause, breathe, and look back at how far you’ve come - not just your child, but your whole family. It’s also a chance to sprinkle a little magic into the coming months with new goals, fun traditions, and plenty of laughter.

So, take a moment to celebrate the chaos, the cuddles, and the character-building moments that made 2024 special.

We can’t wait to see what 2025 will bring!