You get an invitation in the mail, an invite to attend your niece’s first birthday party. How cute! Is there any way to make the event more meaningful?

The Rebbe encouraged parents to celebrate a child's first birthday. Not with balloons and cake per se, but by contemplating the immense responsibility of raising a child, of developing her soul, and educating her in the ways of G‑d. On a child’s birthday, his or her parents recommit to guiding their child to increase in learning and good deeds.

When parents create such an environment, it leaves an everlasting imprint on the child's soul, even if he won’t consciously remember it.

Thoughtstream: Today, I will try to infuse meaning into my child’s milestones.

(Adapted from Torat Menachem 5742, vol. IV, pg. 2190.)