Your baby at 6 months

Typical milestones (a guide, not a test)

Feeding

• Avoid whole nuts, whole grapes, popcorn, hard raw vegetables, chunks of meat/cheese (choking). — modify texture <4 years
• Avoid honey before 12 months — risk of infant botulism. — AVOID <12 months
• Exclusive breastfeeding — Breast milk only — no water, formula (unless medically indicated), or foods. Vitamin D supplement per pediatrician.
• Do not give cow's milk as the main drink before 12 months (poor iron, renal load). — AVOID as main drink <12 months
• Introduce common allergens (peanut, egg) from ~6 months in age-appropriate form — early introduction reduces allergy risk (LEAP/EAT). — INTRODUCE from ~6 months
• Avoid added salt and sugar in the first year. — AVOID first year
• Introduce complementary foods — Continue breastfeeding + begin iron-rich complementary foods (iron stores deplete by ~6mo). Start single-ingredient purees.

Play & bonding

Keeping baby safe

• Safe sleep: place baby on the BACK on a firm flat surface; no soft bedding, pillows, bumpers, or loose blankets (reduces SIDS)., Car seat: rear-facing in the back seat., Choking: keep small objects and small/round foods away; supervise feeding., Water: never leave a baby alone in the bath, even for a moment., No baby walkers (fall/injury risk); supervise tummy time.

Sleep

• Ranges are per 24 hours and, for children through preschool, include naps. Individual needs vary. — 12-16