At six months old, your baby is likely not yet on the move. Though he's probably rolling from side to side or jumping in a bouncer, he most likely stays wherever you put him. However, within the next several weeks and months, all of that will change. Your baby will soon be crawling and walking, making it difficult to keep up with him. There are ways to help your baby along and encourage that physical development.
Step 1
Create a safe space. Allow your infant to play in a place that is safe for him to explore and to practice trying to crawl, creep or pull himself up. Keep him away from sharp edges and be sure the floor is free of anything he can put into his mouth.
Step 2
Dress to move. Dress your child in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows her to move comfortably.
Step 3
Give him finger foods. At 6 months old, your baby may begin to start feeding himself. Sit him in a high chair and give tiny bites of foods he can pick up himself. After some practice, your baby will begin to develop his pincer grasp, pick up foods between his thumb and forefinger and get them into his mouth. Expect a mess at first, but this skill should be nearly perfected by the time he is 9 months old.
Step 4
Bounce your baby. At 6 months, your baby may begin to bear some weight on her legs when held in a standing position. This can help her strengthen her leg muscles. Hold her under her arms and help her stand on your lap or on the floor.
Step 5
Place tempting objects just out of reach. Place a toy just out of your baby's grasp and encourage him to reach for it. If he cries in frustration, offer encouragement but do not immediately give him the toy. Allow him time to work for what he wants.
Things You'll Need
- Finger foods
- High chair
- Toys
