Six Month Milestones: First Teeth and More
Break out the baby book because time is flying by. At 6 months, your baby is halfway through their first year of life. There’s a lot to celebrate and so much to look forward to together. From the first taste of solid food to a toothy new grin, these major milestones signify that your baby is growing healthy and strong. Read on to learn all the surprises that are in store during the six-month mark.
The Arrival of Teeth
While the age at which teeth first appear can vary, six months is typically when the first ones arrive. Teeth usually come in pairs, and the lower central incisors are first. You can use this tooth chart to keep track of your child’s incoming teeth. Now is also a good time to pay attention to your baby’s oral hygiene and keep those pearly whites clean.
Baby’s First Bite
With new teeth to chew and chomp, your baby can begin to try solid foods. Most experts recommend rice cereal as a first choice since it has a mild flavor and is easy to digest. Other soft foods to introduce include applesauce, mashed bananas, and pureed avocado. Make sure you have a camera and a bib ready!
Rocking and Rolling
With every passing day, your baby is becoming stronger. At 6 months old, they will begin to support themselves with their hands and can sit up with minimal support. You may also notice that they can rock and roll to each side and reach for toys while on their tummy. Your baby may not be crawling yet, but these are important motor skills that signify they’re on their way.
Baby Babble
Long before your baby utters their first word, they will have spent months listening to you. By 6 months old, they finally start to play with their voice and mouth. You may notice lots of babbling, squealing, and growling. This is also the time when babies begin to recognize their names and familiar faces.
Keep in mind that these milestones are only guidelines. It’s not unusual for healthy babies to fall behind in some areas, or race ahead in others. Your baby’s health care provider will evaluate your baby’s development at every check-up. Always speak to your child’s health care provider if you are concerned.