Six Months | Download to Print

Nutrition
Your infant should receive about 24oz. of formula a day. He/She should start being fed solid foods. Your infant may be fed two or three meals daily, with a new food introduced at 3 to 4 day intervals. At least 6-8 tablespoons of iron-fortified cereal should be included in the infant’s diet.
Once your child can sit unsupported for several minutes, he can be fed in a high chair, and may be offered some finger foods such as veggie wheels, soft fruit, teething biscuits. Do not leave your child unattended while eating even briefly. Choking is one of the most common accidents to occur at this age. Be prepared to pick up your child, hold with head down and pat firmly on the back. Do not reach in the mouth or do a fingersweep, since this may push the food further down.
Exclusively breastfed infants should begin solids at this age. Vitamin D and Fluoride supplements should also be given to the breastfed infant.
Your infant should not be placed in the crib with a bottle to reduce bottle caries and ear infections.
Begin to offer your infant sips of drinks from a cup.
Do not feed your infant honey or corn syrup until 12 months of age because of the risk of Botulism.

Elimination
If you are having difficulty changing the diaper, offer your infant a toy or use a mobile to occupy him/her.
Allow your infant to explore his/her genitalia during diaper changing.

Sleep
Most infants nap twice a day. Separation anxiety may cause your infant to resist going to sleep. A special stuffed animal or blanket may be helpful.
Your infant should be put to bed while still awake. If your infant wakes up during the night, he/she should be comforted briefly, but not fed or played with.