Six Months

HEALTH ISSUES

Breastfeed.
Avoid the application of kajal or surma to the eyes.
Introduce solid foods (cereal first, then others; 2-3 meals per day).
Do not put cereal in bottle, rather spoon-feed baby.
Know how to use a thermometer to take a rectal temperature (instructions are included along with a thermometer.
Do not over-bundle baby - a simple rule is to add one layer (like a blanket) for baby to whatever seems comfortable for you (if a T-shirt is comfortable for you, have baby wear a T-shirt PLUS one layer).

SAFETY ISSUES

· Continue safe car seat use. Read instructions for proper installation. Here are some general guidelines:

Place seat in the middle of the back seat, rear facing (until at least 12 months of age, regardless of weight).
Use the "H" or "I" clip if you have a retractable shoulder harness.
Place, baby on his or her BACK for sleeping.
Always keep a hand on your baby when lying on a changing table, bed or sofa.
Install and test your smoke detector in or near your baby’s room.
Childproof your home (poisons, medicines, guns, plastic bags, sharp objects, cords, outlets, cigarettes, hot liquids, latches on cabinets).
Obtain your local Poison Control Center’s phone number and keep it on hand
Do not use baby walkers. They are associated with serious injuries. The only acceptable substitute is a non-moving play station that the baby can sit in.
Do not keep 5 gallon buckets in your home (to prevent drowning).
Avoid choke hazards (peanuts, popcorn, hard candy, whole grapes, raisins, carrot sticks, small toy pieces).

Possibly be saying "dada" or "mama"; babble back to you.
Roll over; have good head control when pulled to sit; sit with assistance; bear weight.
Transfer objects from one hand to another, often putting objects in mouth.
Laugh, squeal, and turn to noises.
Get his or her first tooth within next 6 months (if not already).
Have bowel movements at least once every 3 days if formula fed, once every week if breast-fed

Hold, cuddle and rock baby.
Talk and sing regularly to baby.
Continue to read books to baby.
Play pats a cake and peek-a-boo with baby.
Use distraction as a discipline tool.
Limit the number of rules, but be consistent with them.
Have a bedtime routine and put baby to bed awake.
Offer comfort objects (stuffed animals, blanket).
Spend time alone with your partner - one of the best things you can do for your baby is to maintain a quality relationship with your partner.

GO TO 4-6 MONTHS GO TO 9 MONTHS