Your Baby at Six Months

Congratulations—your baby is now half a year old! This is a significant milestone and an exciting time for both you and your little one. With many new developments on the horizon, let’s dive into what to expect at this stage and how to navigate these changes.

Sleep

By six months, you might find that your nights are less disrupted. Your baby may start dropping any night feeds, especially as they begin eating solid foods. This can lead to longer stretches of uninterrupted sleep for both of you.

Most babies at this age are sleeping around 11-12 hours at night and still taking two naps during the day. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can help reinforce healthy sleep habits and ensure your baby is well rested.

Communication

Your six-month-old is becoming increasingly vocal and expressive. You may hear them making a range of sounds and even words like ‘ma,’ ‘da,’ ‘ah,’ and ‘oh.’ Some babies might surprise you with their first ‘no!’ as they start to test their newfound vocal skills.

This is also a great time to introduce basic sign language for words like ‘more,’ ‘eat,’ ‘milk,’ and ‘all done.’ Your baby might soon be able to use these signs to communicate their needs more clearly. It’s wonderful to see them grow and develop their communication skills.

Movement

At six months, many babies can sit up on their own, which can make mealtimes easier as they start eating solids. They might also be beginning to explore moving around, whether through crawling, bum shuffling, or rolling.

If your baby isn’t crawling yet, don’t worry. Some babies work out how to go backwards before they manage to move forwards. You might see them rocking back and forth on all fours as they practice their crawling skills. Every baby develops at their own pace, so celebrate the progress they are making, no matter how they get around.

Feeding

This month marks the beginning of your baby’s weaning journey, a thrilling milestone for both of you. Introducing solid foods opens up a world of new flavours and textures for your baby to explore. Whether you choose traditional purees, baby-led weaning, or a combination of both, expect some mess—it’s all part of the fun!

While your baby starts to eat solid foods, they will still rely heavily on milk for their nutritional needs. As they gradually consume more solids, the amount of milk they drink will naturally decrease.

You – Six Months Postpartum

You’ve been a mum for six months now, and it’s a good time to start thinking about your own well-being. If you’re interested in improving your fitness levels, begin gradually and listen to your body. There’s no rush, and it’s important to take things at your own pace.

Consider joining a mum and baby fitness class, where you can exercise while keeping your little one with you. These classes provide a great way to get back into shape while also bonding with your baby and meeting other parents.

This article has been written using the latest guidance and information from trusted sources, primarily the NHS. This information should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your personal health and circumstances.