Your baby at 6 months: milestones, feeding & growth
Typical milestones (a guide, not a test)
Cognitive (learning/thinking)
- Puts things in her mouth to explore themCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Reaches to grab a toy he wantsCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Closes lips to show she doesn't want more foodCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Language & Communication
- Takes turns making sounds with youCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Blows "raspberries" (sticks tongue out and blows)CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Makes squealing noisesCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Movement & Physical
- Rolls from tummy to backCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Pushes up with straight arms when on tummyCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Leans on hands to support himself when sittingCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Social & Emotional
- Knows familiar peopleCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Likes to look at himself in a mirrorCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- LaughsCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
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
Part of Baby's first year.
educational reference only; milestones are general guides — discuss any concerns with a pediatrician. Not a diagnostic tool.