All babies grow and develop at their own pace. At 6 months old, a baby reaches physical, speech and behavioral milestones. However, these developments vary from child to child. Not reaching a growth milestone on time might indicate that your baby is focusing on a different skill at the moment and needs extra time to develop another. However, if you suspect your child is developing abnormally, contact your pediatrician to discuss your concerns.
Body Growth
At this stage, your baby's growth might slow to 1 to 1.25 pounds a month. This rate typically continues until his first birthday. By 8 months old, most babies weigh 2 1/2 times more than they did at birth. Your baby's length might also increase around six months by up to 2 inches. However, his growth depends on a variety of factors, including genetics, the quality and quantity of food he eats and his overall health.
Strength and Mobility
Babies at this age develop stronger neck and arm muscles that allow them to practice rolling over, but your baby might skip this method of transportation altogether and move on to lunging or crawling. Some babies can sit up at this point and go from lying on their bellies to sitting up on their own. A 6-month-old can also bear weight on his legs, allowing him to pull himself into a standing position.
Communication and Social Behavior
Your baby is now learning how his behaviors engage you. He will do more than cry to get your attention, perhaps making noises and wiggling. He is developing his unique way of communicating his wants and needs to you. While your baby isn't ready to form words, he is practicing making sounds and imitating what he hears. Stranger and separation anxiety might also begin at this time, although your child might initially begin to experience it after his first birthday.
Eating and Sleep Habits
While your baby's nutrition mostly comes from breast milk and formula, it's time to introduce solids. His stools might change in color and odor. If they seem too firm, introduce other fruits and vegetables. Babies at this age might take two to three naps a day and might not sleep more than five or six hours straight at night. However, most are ready for night weaning. A sleepless baby might want to play, due to his new cognitive and motor development, or he might be experiencing separation anxiety.
