Fun and creative ways to document baby's first year

Whether you're a new mum or already have a growing family, your baby's first year can be a big adjustment period. Night feeds, lack of sleep and getting used to a new way of life - it all takes its toll. But those twelve months are also full of amazing milestones for both you and your little one.

While it might take some extra effort and creativity, documenting your baby's first 365 days will be so rewarding in the long run. The year will pass in the blink of an eye, but you'll have the memories of all those firsts to keep for life.

Here are some of our favourite ways to keep track of all those changes...

1. Milestone cards
You can buy these pre-made at many specialist baby stores, or simply make your own on some coloured paper. Anytime your little one reaches a big milestone - first word, sitting up, first time eating solids - snap a picture of them with the card. This simple idea will give you warm memories for years to come.

2. Comparison photos
We love this idea. Take a picture of baby next to the same treasured stuffed animal or with the same cushion each month for twelve months. Not only is it an easy option for keeping friends and relatives updated, it's a great visual way of charting your little one's growth!

3. Blackboard pictures
All you need for this is a large blackboard, some chalk, and for your little one to be in a good mood! Draw out whatever scene you like - clouds, animals, a hot air balloon or even a rock concert - and snap some cute pictures of baby lying on the board. Another great month-by-month way of documenting your newborn's changes.

4. A memory quilt
As your baby gets older, it can feel like they are outgrowing their clothes by the day. What better way to upcycle those forgotten babygros and t-shirts from the first year than sewing them into a quilt? This takes a bit of effort but is such a rewarding project that your little one can keep for life.

5. A year of firsts
This is a lovely decoration idea for your baby's first birthday party - and one that you will treasure forever. Snap a quick picture anytime they reach a big milestone, and compile them in a large frame at the end of the year. You can be as elaborate or as simple as you like when preparing the frame, so this is a project to suit all tastes and abilities.

6. First outfit keepsake
Dressing your baby for the first time is such a memorable experience. Why not make a momento of that first outfit by framing it, along with hospital wristbands and any other souvenirs? Of course, you may need to give the clothes a spin in the washing machine first!

7. Mum's one-line journal
As a new mum it's impossible to find a few minutes to get dressed and showered, let alone to sit down and write a diary entry. That's why we love this "one line a day" journal idea. A thought for the day, a nice quote or even a quick doodle are all easy ways to capture your own development and changes during that first year! It'll be something to look back on and smile at in years to come.

8. Number stickers
Another simple way to document your baby's weekly or monthly growth. Again, these can be purchased or made by hand. Simply take a picture of baby sporting the sticker on their outfit or sitting next to it. At the end of the year the regular snapshots will make an adorable photobook or scrapbook.