There is so much to do and to understand and learn about your baby’s development in it’s first 6 months so we have compiled a list for you to read below.
Natural Abilities
Sitting Upright – At this stage the strength of your Baby’s neck and back muscles have increased. The sitting upright position is a new development and gives a whole new perspective and outlook on the world around. Ensure that your Baby is fully supported by cushions.
Movement – Your Baby is more in control of movement of their arms and legs and more aware of their surroundings. Improved and more frequent rolling from front to back and vice versa will be attempted. There will also be an improvement evident when your Baby is lying on their tummy and attempts at crawling will be made.
Sleeping Patterns – You will have noticed that your Baby will be sleeping for shorter periods of time during the day. Your Baby may also start to “fight off” sleep if they are having too much fun just before. It is important to introduce a “winding down” period before sleep into your Baby’s routine.
Co-ordination
Reaching – Efforts will be made to reach out for all objects within their grasp. Soft rolling toys will encourage movement, as your Baby will move after them.
Hands – Co-ordination of your Baby’s hands has increased and they are able to easily pass an object from one hand to the other. Co-ordination can be improved with rattles and toys that make noise when shaken.
Feeding – Your Baby will attempt to feed themselves by holding their bottle etc. You should not discourage this.
Sounds
Talking – Your Baby will talk more and more, and even though most words will be “Baby talk”, you should try to imitate what they have just said as this will encourage them to speak more and more.
Understanding – An understanding of simple phrases and words will improve. Names will be recognized.
Vocabulary Encourage an increase in vocabulary by hold your Baby in front of you so that they can see you pronouncing new words and sounds.
Teaching
Self-amusement – Your Baby will begin to be more and more confident and content when left alone. Being able to amuse themselves independently without constant “minding” is important and should be encouraged.
Objects – As your Baby’s co-ordination has improved they can hold objects in both hands simultaneously. They will also look for any objects that may have dropped and they will attempt to pick these up.
Reactions – On hearing their name, your Baby will respond by turning their head immediately. At this stage in their development your Baby should be able to recognize themselves in a photograph.
Enjoyment
Reading – Together Reading books while on your knee is enjoyed immensely. Activity type picture books are recommended, as these will have pop-up sections, secret compartments, movable pictures and different textures.
Bouncing and movement – When held in a standing position on the floor your Baby really enjoys bouncing up and down. Remember to give full support to your Baby while they do this.
Noise – Your Baby will begin to make more noises with objects by purposely dropping toys on the floor or knocking toys on tables and other surfaces.
Interaction – The Company of other children is enjoyed even if your Baby is watching from a distance and not directly interacting.
Play Suggestions
Crawling – It is important to encourage crawling where possible. You can do this by placing your Baby on the floor and sitting a short distance in front of them. You can then call them and encourage them to come to you. You can also use a favourite toy or soft ball.
Toys – Activity Centre Toys with buttons and dials that make lots of sounds. This encourages learning about actions and reactions.
Talking – Continue to encourage talking by repeating any sounds your Baby makes. This will provide your Baby with encouragement to be more vocal. When you talk to your Baby leave gaps for them to respond.
Finger Foods – If you haven’t done so already start to introduce “finger foods” to your Baby’s diet. These should be slowly introduced. Your Baby can learn to feed themselves and in turn will be able to join the dinner table (on a high-chair) for mealtimes.
Bath-time – Bath-time should be taken as a great opportunity to exercise and increase leg and stomach muscle development, which is important for crawling and walking. Encourage your Baby to kick and splash as much as they can, by supporting them in the water.
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