Table of Contents
Physical Development
At 6-7 months old, your baby’s physical development is really starting to take off! Most babies are now able to sit unsupported, although they may still topple over from time to time. They may also be rolling over in both directions, and may be able to crawl (although some babies don’t crawl until closer to their first birthday).
Your baby’s fine motor skills are also developing rapidly. They may be able to pick up small objects between their thumb and forefinger (the “pincer grasp”), and may be able to transfer objects from one hand to the other. They may also be starting to use a sippy cup or a straw cup, if you’ve introduced one.
Language and Cognitive Development
Your baby’s language and cognitive development is also progressing quickly. They may be able to understand and respond to simple commands, such as “come here” or “wave goodbye.” They may also be starting to babble or “talk” in their own language, combining vowels and consonants into “words.”
Your baby’s memory is also starting to develop. They may be able to remember where a toy is hidden, or remember the sequence of events in a familiar routine (such as bedtime or mealtime).
Social and Emotional Development
Your baby’s social and emotional development is also blossoming at this age. They may be starting to show stranger anxiety, becoming anxious or upset around unfamiliar people. They may also be displaying separation anxiety, becoming upset or clingy when you leave the room.
Your baby may also be starting to show more empathy, by responding to others’ emotions with their own emotional reactions. They may also be starting to understand cause-and-effect relationships, such as realizing that crying will bring attention from a familiar caregiver.
Nutrition and Sleep
At 6-7 months old, your baby’s nutritional needs are still primarily met through breastmilk or formula. However, they may also be starting to eat solid foods, such as pureed fruits and vegetables or iron-fortified cereals. They may also be starting to drink water from a cup.
Your baby’s sleep schedule may also be starting to regulate at this age, with longer periods of sleep at night and more predictable naps during the day. However, every baby is different, and some may still be waking frequently at night or taking shorter naps.
Conclusion
Overall, 6-7 months is an exciting time in your baby’s development! They’re becoming more independent, more communicative, and more socially-aware. Enjoy watching them grow and develop, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures and videos along the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should my baby start crawling?
A: Some babies start crawling as early as 6 months, while others don’t crawl until closer to their first birthday. Every baby is different, so don’t worry if your baby isn’t crawling yet.
Q: How often should I feed my baby solid foods?
A: Every baby is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Generally, you can start by offering solids once a day, and gradually increase to 2-3 times a day as your baby gets older and more accustomed to eating solids.
Q: My baby seems to be waking up more at night lately. Is this normal?
A: Yes, it’s normal for babies to wake up frequently at night, especially during growth spurts or developmental milestones. Try to stick to a consistent bedtime routine, and offer comfort and reassurance to your baby when they wake up.
Q: When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
A: You can start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they start to appear, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
Q: My baby doesn’t seem interested in toys. Is this normal?
A: Every baby is different, and some may be more interested in toys than others. Keep offering a variety of toys and see what your baby responds to – they may surprise you!