Full preparations for the first birthday ~ The best birthday, one-sho rice cake, commemorative photo, MR vaccination

Preparations to avoid regrets at age one

The best gift for your beloved child



"It's almost his first birthday... what can I do for him?"


An important milestone: my beloved child turning one year old.


While dealing with daily breastfeeding, diaper changes, and night crying,

Before you know it, your baby will have grown into a child.

At the same time as feeling happy, you may also feel a little lonely.



"I want this child to grow up healthy and happy..."

"I want to make this once in a lifetime anniversary special..."



We will respond fully to the loving feelings of such mothers.



In fact, around the age of one

There are some very important preparations that can only be made now .


Over the past 25 years, he has watched over the growth of over 2,000 one-year-olds.

The real experiences of pediatric nurses,

We've collected the opinions of experienced moms who say, "I should have done this!"



By the time you finish reading this guide,

"Well, that was for the child's good!"

With this heartwarming discovery,

You'll be ready to proudly celebrate your first birthday.



To my child whom I have raised with lots of love,

Would you like to prepare the best gift together?


What vaccinations should you avoid at age one?



The truth about MR vaccination and the best timing to protect your child



"I want to protect my child from illness...but which vaccinations are most important?"


We will clearly respond to your mother's loving feelings.


There is one very important vaccine that should be administered "first" when your child turns one year old.

This is the MR (measles-rubella) vaccine .



Why is there such a rush to get vaccinated?


In fact, the important immunity (transfer antibodies) received from mother

This is because it almost completely disappears between 6 and 12 months of age.


This means that babies around one year old are at the highest risk of infection .



Measles is often thought of as just a rash,

In fact, it has a very strong infectious power that spreads through the air ,

It can also cause serious complications such as encephalitis and pneumonia.


"I'm worried about side effects from the vaccine..."

I understand the anxiety of such mothers.



But don't worry.


Side effects of the MR vaccine (fever in about 20% of cases, rash in about 10%) are:

It is also evidence that the immune system is well developed .


To protect our precious children,

Think of it as the first "love charm" that mom gives you.







What is checked at the 1-year-old health check?



Key points to assess development to eliminate worries about children not being able to walk or talk



"My child can't walk yet...I wonder if he's doing okay compared to other kids?"


To moms who have such worries.

The one-year-old checkup is a valuable opportunity to objectively check your beloved child's growth.



At the 1-year-old health check (officially the 18-month check),

We check not only height and weight, but also the overall development of the mind and body .



[Motor development checkpoints]

Checking walking alone, sense of balance, going up and down stairs...


"My child is still holding on to things."

Some mothers worry about this,

In fact, at the age of 18 months, approximately 15% of children are still not able to walk independently .



[Language development]

In addition to "Mom" and "Dad,"

Check if you can say 3-5 meaningful words such as "woof woof" and "boo-boo."


However, there are large individual differences in language development.

The most important thing is that the child is growing at their own pace .



[Social Development]

Shyness, mimicry (waving, saying bye-bye),

It is also important to confirm the attachment relationship with the mother.


If you have any concerns during your health check,

Please feel free to consult us.

A mom's intuition is the most reliable indicator of all.







Why do they make people carry a one-sho rice cake?



It's okay to cry! The true meaning of celebrating your child's first birthday and how to prepare for it



"He was crying while carrying the heavy rice cakes... I felt sorry for him."


No, no, it's okay!

In fact, crying is part of the celebration and brings good fortune .



A one-sho rice cake is filled with deep love and wishes.


[The heartwarming origins of Issho mochi]

"So that you will never be short of food for the rest of your life (one sho)"

"May you live a lifetime of good health (Issho)"


The round shape of the mochi represents a "harmonious life,"

The weight of about 1.8 kg means "carrying the weight of life on your shoulders."

It has a deep meaning.



"But it was so heavy I started crying..."


Don't worry.

It has long been believed that "crying is a sign of good health" and "crying drives away evil spirits."

That's what they say.


The sight of him crying so hard is an important record that is so typical of this child.



[A modern arrangement for a special occasion]

Fortune telling with selection cards, record your growth with footprint art,

Making a time capsule with the whole family


While valuing tradition,

You can create a special first birthday just for this child .



What's most important is,

The whole family rejoices in the child's growth,

It's about showing lots of love.


When should you take your baby's first birthday photos?



Tips for capturing beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime moments



"When is the best time to take my child's first birthday photo?"

"Since we've come this far, I want to capture the cutest moments..."


We will respond to the feelings of such a loving mother.



In fact, in the commemorative photo of his first birthday,

There is a golden period that is ideal for photography .


[The best time is two weeks before the birthday]

Why is this the ideal time?


Babies around one year old are still very shy around strangers,

They are sensitive to changes in the environment.


On the day of my birthday, I was exhausted from eating rice cakes and having guests over.

"He's in a bad mood and doesn't smile at all..."

This can sometimes lead to unfortunate results.



[How to choose between professional photography and self-photography]

The appeal of professional photography is the beauty of the lighting and composition.

But if you want to emphasize a natural look that is unique to the child,

In fact, sometimes it's better to take a selfie.


When mom and dad take photos , they feel a sense of love for their child .

It's amazing how it shows up in photos too.



[The secret to a successful shoot while staying in a good mood]

Aim for the best time of the morning (9-10am) when they are in the best mood.

Prepare your favorite toys

Don't force a smile, keep your facial expression natural...


What's most important is,

The feeling of "I love this moment with this child"

It's about putting it into the photo.







When should I start weaning my baby?



A safe step to transition from finger-feeding to adult meals



"Is it okay for my child to eat the same food as adults?"

"When they eat with their hands and get dirty, I can't help but reach out..."


The transition to the completion of weaning food is

This also brings new worries for the mother.



However, the fact is that the age of around one is an important period for developing independence in food .


[Signs of weaning completion]

The back teeth have grown in, and food can be bitten off with the front teeth.

Able to drink fluids from a cup, shows interest in a spoon...


If these signs are present,

Now is the time to "introduce your child to adult food at his own pace."



[Eating with your hands is an important developmental process]

"It's a problem because it gets dirty..."

I can understand how you feel.


But eating with your hands,

"Ability to feed oneself," "Manual dexterity," and "Interest in food"

This is an important learning experience that helps develop this.


Without worrying about getting dirty, you can let your child have their way!

Please watch over them warmly.



[Safe transition steps]

First, start with a menu that can be shared from adult meals.

The seasoning should be light, and the hardness should be such that you can crush it with your gums...


Don't rush, "The most important thing is that the child enjoys eating"

Keep that in mind.


Even if you have likes and dislikes, now is the time to discover the joy of food.

With a meal full of mom's love,

Please help this child develop the joy of eating.







Is it too late if a child doesn't talk at 1 year old?



A magical way of interacting that naturally promotes language development



"My friend's child can already say 'woof woof,' but my child..."

"He still won't say anything other than 'Mom' and 'Dad'. Is that okay?"


Feeling anxious compared to other children

I understand that very well.



But don't worry.

There is a lot more individual variation in language development than you might think .


[Guidelines for language development around age 1]

Some children say 1-3 meaningful words,

Some children are still mainly babbling.


It's not the number of words that matters,

"Responds to mom's voice" "Communicates by pointing"

The question is whether you can communicate things like this.



[A magical way of interacting that encourages words]

In fact, the most effective

"Putting this child's feelings into words."


"Oh, you want some water?"

"I'm so glad you found your doggie."


By speaking for this child's inner voice,

They will naturally learn that they can express their feelings through words .



[Don't rush, trust the child's pace]

Children who are slow to speak actually

I often have a lot of words prepared in my mind .


One day, suddenly, the floodgates burst and he started talking.

It's not uncommon for this to surprise mom.


Trust in this child's own pace,

A shower of loving words

Please give it a shower.







My child is 1 year old and still can't walk, is that okay?



Creating an environment that supports children from standing up to walking independently



"Children of the same age are already walking, but my child..."

"When will I be able to walk on my own?"


For mothers who are worried about their child's walking development.

First, please be aware of this fact.



In fact, only about 50% of children can walk at the age of 1 year and 0 months .


That is, on the first birthday

The reality is that it is more common for children to be unable to walk .


If your child starts walking by 1 year and 6 months, there is no problem.



[Understanding the individuality of walking development]

A cautious child will only start walking when they are fully prepared.

Active children will continue to try things without worrying about falling.


"This child is careful and wants to walk only after making sure it is safe."

When you think about it that way, don't you find it endearing how this child grows at their own pace?



[Creating an environment that supports walking]

Spend more time barefoot (to develop sensation in the soles of your feet)

Creating a safe space without steps

"Come on in," I say with a smile and open my arms...


But the most important thing is,

"Recognize and love your child at this stage of development."



Standing up and crawling,

All of these are important steps towards walking.


Don't rush, let's support the child's desire to "do it!"

Please watch over them warmly.


Once they start walking, it becomes a lot of work and they'll be running around like crazy!

The relaxing time you have now will surely become a fond memory.







Is it necessary to brush teeth from age 1?



Cavity prevention and oral care that even reluctant children can enjoy



"Whenever I see a toothbrush, I run away..."

"I only have a few teeth left, do I still need to brush them?"


For moms who are worried about brushing their child's teeth around the age of one.



Did you know that cavities in baby teeth can actually affect permanent teeth ?


It is often thought that "it will grow back anyway,"

The health of baby teeth determines the child's future dental health.

It's a very important foundation .



[Why brushing teeth from age 1 is important]

The golden age for developing tooth brushing habits is around the age of one.


At this time , "brushing your teeth feels good"

Creating a positive impression

It lays the foundation for good habits that will last a lifetime.



[A magical approach to reluctant children]

First, let them play with the toothbrush as a "toy,"

Mom shows her happy brushing her teeth,

It takes a short time to sing along...


Refusing to brush your teeth is also evidence of growth.

Don't expect perfection, just get used to it little by little and you'll be fine .



[Oral care filled with love]

Start by gently wiping with gauze.

Gradually transition to a soft toothbrush.


"I want to protect this child's precious teeth."

Such loving and gentle care from a mother

This is the best way to prevent tooth decay for your child.


Even if you don't like it, don't give up and keep going.

One day he'll say, "Mommy, let me brush your teeth."







First birthday party preparation list



Heartwarming celebration plans and budget ideas that will delight your grandparents



"I want to celebrate my child's first birthday in a special way, but where should I start?"

"I want to invite my grandparents, but what kind of party should we have?"


My beloved child turns one year old.

I completely understand the desire to celebrate with the whole family.



[Party plans by budget]

Simple Plan (Under 5,000 yen):

Homemade cake, rice cake, selection card,

A family photo shoot will be a wonderful way to celebrate.


Standard Plan (10,000-15,000 yen):

Professional cakes, decorations, souvenir creation,

Souvenirs for grandparents too.


Special Plan (over 20,000 yen):

Venue rental, professional photography, and luxurious cuisine

A party to remember for a lifetime.



[Things to consider when inviting grandparents]

The start time is around 10am-2pm (taking into consideration the burden on elderly people),

Create a comfortable sitting environment with chairs and cushions,

Prepare a record of this child's growth (photos and videos)...


"I want my grandparents to be happy with me as I watch my child grow up."

I'm sure you'll understand how I feel.



The most important thing is love

More than luxury,

"I'm so happy that this child has grown up so well."

The best party is one filled with love from the whole family.


Whether handmade or simple,

If it's a celebration filled with love for this child,

It's sure to be a wonderful anniversary.








How long will my 1 year old's night crying last?



Creating a gentle daily rhythm that regulates naps and nighttime sleep



"Even though he's only one year old, he still wakes up in the middle of the night..."

"When will you sleep until morning?"


For moms who are exhausted by their crying babies at night.

First of all, praise yourself for your hard work.



In fact, the main reason for night crying around the age of one is weaning .


My child, who had previously been relieved by nighttime feedings,

This is proof that you're trying to learn a new sleep pattern.


"He's trying to grow in his own way."

When you think about it like that, doesn't it make you feel a little kinder?



[Points to reconsider when taking a nap]

Around the age of one, naps change from two to one day.


Stop taking your morning nap

By consolidating the sessions into one session around 1:00-3:00 PM,

I often get a deeper sleep at night.


But if I suddenly change it, he gets angry,

Please adjust the pace little by little to suit your child .



A gentle approach to successful night weaning

When I wake up in the middle of the night, the first thing I do is pat my back.

Speak kindly to them and give them their favorite towel...


"Mom's here, it's okay."

The most important thing is to convey a sense of security.



Until the crying completely stops

It may take 1-3 months depending on the individual.


I'm not rushing and am creating a new sleep rhythm with my child.

Please keep this in mind and watch over them warmly.







How do you keep a record of your child's growth at one year old?



How to preserve memories you'll want to look back on in 20 years



"I take photos every day, but I can't keep up with organizing them..."

"When this child grows up, what kind of records should I leave behind that will make him happy?"


The desire to record the growth of my beloved child.

However, with the busyness of raising children, organizing records tends to get put off.



In fact, a "record made with love" is better than a "perfect record."

This will be a treasure for this child.



[Smart ways to use digital preservation]

It's enough to simply sort your smartphone photos into folders once a month.

"1 year 0 months", "1 year 1 month", etc.

A simple arrangement is fine.


With the childcare diary app, you can write down your child's diary with photos.

"Today was the first time I was able to say 'manma'!"

You can easily record growth moments such as these.



[The warmth of analog recording]

Handwritten childcare diary, handprint and footprint art,

A letter addressed to this child...


It can't be expressed digitally

It conveys the warmth of a mother's hands and her feelings at that time .


Not every day, but once a month

Please express your love for this child.



[Making a treasure 20 years from now]

Make a time capsule box for your birthday.

Why not put in some current photos, letters, or small toys?


"Let's open it on your 20th birthday."

Such a romantic gift

I'm sure this kid will be impressed.


It's not the amount of records that matters,

That's the love of a mother that's put into it .







Important things to know about your first birthday from experienced moms



Preparations that were really worth doing and points that are often overlooked



"If only I had known sooner then..."

To avoid such regrets,

We bring you valuable experiences from experienced mothers.



[Top 3 things I'm really glad I did]


1st place: Early vaccination with MR vaccine

"He was vaccinated the day after his first birthday.

When measles was spreading around me, I felt safe." (Mother A, 3 children)


2nd place: Recording growth in videos

"You can't tell from a photo alone what this child sounds like or what he does.

Looking back at it now, the cuteness of those days comes back to me." (Ms. B, mother of two)


3rd place: Hire a professional to take family photos

"A family photo with me in it.

When I see my expression from back then, I remember the happy days." (Mrs. C, mother of one child)



[Points that are often overlooked]


"I should have kept a record of my baby's progress with solid food."

With my second child, I was like, "Huh? When did I start eating what?"

It seems that this is often the case.


"I wish I had spent more time with my grandparents."

Because there was a period when we couldn't meet due to the COVID-19 pandemic,

Looking back, many people feel that it was a valuable time.



[Advice from a Pediatrician]

"Turning one year old is a major milestone in the development of the mind and body.

The most important thing is to understand individual differences and allow each child to grow in their own way.


Don't try to be a perfect mom

Cherish the feeling that you love this child .


That will be the best gift for your child."

(Dr. Tanaka, Pediatrician)



My beloved child turns one year old.

Preparation is important, but above all, "cherish this moment"

Don't forget to have a wonderful anniversary.







Make your beloved child's first birthday the best anniversary ever!



Thank you for your hard work every day this past year.


Worried about nighttime crying, baby food, and development...

But the love of my mother who raised me with so much love,

I'm sure it will reach this child's heart.



When a child turns one, I say, "Thank you for helping my child grow up healthy."

It's a special day to express gratitude.


Don't seek perfection,

With love from all the family,

I hope you have a wonderful anniversary.



This child will only turn one year old once in his life.

I'm sure it will become an irreplaceable memory.


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