1st Birthday Souvenir Ideas

Babies only turn 1 once, so a special keepsake souvenir is a great way to commemorate the occasion and give the child something that will last a lifetime. Here are a few ideas for keepsake birthday gifts that both child and mom will surely love for years to come.

Baby Prints

Mix about a cup of Plaster of Paris according to package directions. Pour onto a styrofoam plate and shape into a circle using a knife if necessary.

Carefully place baby's hand into center of mixture and gently press his fingers into the mixture to ensure a good impression. Remove child's hand. Poke two holes into the top of the circle with a straw or toothpicks (for hanging). Let dry according to package directions. Paint and put date on back.

Time Capsule

Wrap a shoebox or potato chip can with pretty paper and fill with items that commemorate the day or year. Some ideas might include that date's newspaper, a movie released that year or a music CD that has been released that year. Tape top of box or can shut and put a note to not open until child turns 18.

Wish Box

Wrap a shoebox in pretty paper. Hand each guest at the birthday party a piece of coordinating paper to write on. Have each guest write down something that they wish for the child (i.e. I wish you a wonderful life), sign it and place in the box. Once all of the "wishes" have been placed in the box, replace the lid and tape shut with a note to not open until a certain date (such as 18th birthday, graduation, etc.).

Engraved Watch

Give the gift of time with a beautiful engraved watch with the year of the child's birth.

Bronzed Baby Shoe

Have one of the child's shoes bronzed for a lasting memory of the baby's first year.

References

• Keepsake Birthday Gift Ideas