Your baby’s first birthday doesn’t necessarily have to be an affair filled with clowns, balloons and party hats. Usually, a first birthday party focuses mainly on the parents rather than the baby himself as he’s too young to remember the events. But for a change, it would be a new idea to make sure that your baby is the center of attention and receives a lot of new things to experience.

Why not plan a small family get-together at your residence or at a relative’s house. It would be great if your relatives also have babies, it would offer a rare opportunity for a one year old to get to know more kids at the same age group. Taking your baby out to a children’s restaurant is also a good way to allow him to meet kids the same age and have a chance to play with unique and interesting toys. But, since most of these restaurants impose age restrictions, make sure that you find out about them early.

For a one year old, nothing matters more than a chance to look, taste, hear and touch new things. A trip to a new place would certainly be pleasing and educational for them. Arrange a trip to the local park, a lake, beach or zoo for a new kind of birthday party with no one other than the people your baby loves and knows more than anyone else. But since you are stepping out of the comfort zone of your house, you need to be armed with a few things to make sure that everything goes smoothly. A car seat is essential whether the drive is long or short. If you don’t already have one, get something reliable such as a maxi cosi car seat to ensure maximum safety and comfort. Since your baby is not still capable of walking long distances, a stroller is essential as it is the best way for your baby to take a good look at the new surroundings. Be sure to purchase one from a reliable brand such as Cosatto or a well known pram model such as a quinny buzz to avoid any unnecessary glitches on a perfect day.

A petting zoo would be an ideal choice to let your baby get to know a few animals. But make sure that the place isn’t too crowded, hot or cold as your baby may get uncomfortable. And don’t forget to pack the diaper bag with all necessities. Who knows? If you try hard enough, he might even remember bits of it.