Every birthday is a reminder of how fast they're growing — and how proud you are of the person they're becoming. Whether your child is turning five, fifteen or fifty, here are birthday wishes for your daughter or son written from Mum, from Dad and from both of you together.
Birthday wishes for your daughter
From Mum
Happy birthday to my beautiful girl. Watching you grow has been the greatest joy of my life.
My darling daughter, you fill our home with laughter and our hearts with pride. Happy birthday, sweetheart.
Wherever you go and whatever you do, you'll always be my little girl. I love you more than all the stars. Happy birthday.
You're kind, clever, brave and funny — everything I hoped you'd be and more. Have the happiest birthday.
Happy birthday to my favourite daughter (and yes, I know you're my only one). Love you to the moon and back.
From Dad
Happy birthday, princess. You'll always have me in your corner, no matter what.
Being your dad is the best job I've ever had. Happy birthday to my amazing girl.
You were born with my stubbornness and your mum's good sense. Somehow that's made you brilliant. Happy birthday, love.
No matter how old you get, I'll always check you've got your coat. Happy birthday, sweetheart.
For a grown-up daughter
Happy birthday to the wonderful woman you've become. I'm so proud of you and so grateful we're close.
You were once our little girl; now you're also our friend. Have a fantastic birthday, darling.
Watching you build your own life with such courage and kindness makes us prouder every year. Happy birthday.
Birthday wishes for your son
From Mum
Happy birthday to my wonderful boy. You make me proud every single day.
My son, my sunshine, my favourite hug. Have the best birthday ever.
You might be too old for cuddles now, but you'll get one anyway. Happy birthday, love.
I hope your birthday is full of fun, friends and far too much cake. You deserve it all.
From Dad
Happy birthday, son. I'm proud to be your dad and even prouder of the young man you're becoming.
From kicking a ball in the garden to beating me at FIFA — it's been a brilliant journey. Happy birthday, champ.
Keep being kind, keep working hard and keep laughing at my terrible jokes. Happy birthday, son.
You're growing up fast, but you'll always be my lad. Have a great day.
For a grown-up son
Happy birthday to the man you've become — thoughtful, strong and a true friend. We're so proud of you.
Seeing you build your own life with such confidence makes our hearts full. Have a wonderful birthday, son.
You'll always have a seat at our table and a place in our hearts. Happy birthday.
Short birthday messages for children
For a card on the cake, a gift tag or a text to a teenager who'd rather not read anything long, these short birthday wishes for kids do the trick.
Happy birthday, superstar!
Happy birthday to our favourite kid! Love, Mum and Dad. x
You make every day brighter. Happy birthday!
Happy birthday, birthday boy! Have the best day.
Happy birthday to our amazing girl!
Another year more awesome. Happy birthday!
We love you millions. Happy birthday!
Have a brilliant birthday — you deserve it!
Longer birthday messages for your child's card
For a milestone birthday — 16th, 18th, 21st — or a card to keep, a longer message says what's usually left unsaid.
On the day you were born, our lives changed forever. Every year since, you've taught us something new about love, patience and joy. We're so proud of the person you're becoming, and we can't wait to see where life takes you. Happy birthday — we love you more than words can say.
Eighteen years ago we held you for the first time and promised to always look after you. Now you're heading out into the world, and while we'll miss you like mad, we couldn't be prouder. Remember: whatever happens, home is always here. Happy 18th birthday.
Happy birthday to our wonderful child. You've grown into someone kind, curious and strong, and we feel lucky every day to be your parents. Keep dreaming big — we'll be cheering you on all the way.
How to make your child's birthday special
- Start a tradition. Birthday breakfast, a special song or a height mark on the door frame creates memories that last.
- Write a letter every year. Note down what they loved, what they learned and what made you proud. Give them the collection when they turn 18.
- Let them choose. For older children, letting them plan the day — the food, the outing, the film — makes them feel grown-up.
- Keep it about them. Small, personal touches matter more than big, expensive parties.
Looking for more birthday words? Browse our full collection of birthday wishes, find milestone birthday messages, or get inspiration from our gift ideas.
