9-Month Baby Milestones: Complete Guide to Growth, Development & What to Expect Raising a baby is one of the most thrilling experiences that one can ever go through and at the age of 9 months, the baby is more active, curious, and expressive. This is a period that is marked with a lot of fast growth; both physically, emotionally and mentally. Knowing these milestones will enable you to take care of your baby to a larger extent and have fun during all the precious moments. 🌟 Physical Development A baby at the age of 9 months is much stronger and more mobile. They like movement as the best means of exploring the world. The majority of babies of this age are capable of: Sit with a prolonged period of time without support. Crawling or creeping (some can forego crawling). Pull himself to stand with the help of furniture. Bounce with supporting in the hand. Start walking (walking with objects in one hand) There is also improvement in the coordination of hands of your baby. They may: Pin...
First Food for 6 month baby
The experience of becoming a mother is beautiful. Introduction of first solid food of a baby is one of the most thrilling ones. You can be delighted, perplexed, frightened, and thrilled all at the same time when your little one is six months old. I am well aware of that feeling.
When to Start Solid Food?
Majority of doctors and health professionals such as the World Health Organization advocate breastfeeding only during the first six months. Breast milk may not be sufficient to sustain your growing baby nutritionally six months later. It is then that you can gradually add solid foods on top of breast feeding.
But do not forget that all babies are different.
Also look at the following signs instead of the age:
- Baby can sit with support
- Good neck control
- Shows interest when you eat
- When presented with food opens mouth.
- Weakened tongue-thrust reflex (is not able to kick out food at once)
When you see these symptoms, then you are ready to taste something new!
What Should Be the First Food?
The first food should be:
- Soft and smooth
- Easy to digest
- Mild in taste
- Given in small quantity
When one is six months old, he/she only learns and tries food. The primary source of nutrition remains to be the breast milk or formula.
The following are some of the basic and secure first foods.
1.Rice Porridge (Rice Kanji)
Rice is not heavy and it is digested easily. Rice powder This is made by roasting and grinding uncooked rice at home. Cook it in water till smooth and slightly thin.
Start with 2-3 spoons once a day. Gradually add the amount to which your baby submits.
2.Dal Water or Mashed Dal
Moong dal can also be used as it does not irritate the stomach. Bake it all and nice it smash it. To start with, you may serve thin dal water. Later, give well-mashed dal.
It provides protein and is beneficial in proper growth.
3.Mashed Banana
Banana is a soft and sweet ingredient naturally. Mash it well without lumps. No need to add sugar. It provides the energy and assists in gaining weight.
It is best to start with very little to observe the reaction of the baby.
Mashed and Steamed Vegetables.
You can try:
- Carrot
- Pumpkin
- Potato
- Sweet potato
Steam them in a good manner and mash. Do not add spices or salt at this point. Infants require plain and natural flavor.
Apple Puree
Peel the apples and chop them into small steamy bits and mash them to a smooth puree. Raw apple should be avoided since it might be difficult to digest at this age.
The natural sweetness can be added by using fruit purees.
How Much and How Often?
At six months:
Start with once a day
2-3 teaspoons at first
Gradually, rise to half a small bowl.
A couple of weeks later, you will be able to feed twice in a day. But do not force feed. In case of closing mouth or turning head away by your baby, then stop and re-try later.
This is also a learning stage to remember. There are days when baby eats well and there are days when he will not eat. It is normal.
Considerable Advice on the First Feeding.
Follow the 3-Day Rule
You must test any new food you introduce, so as to give it three days and see:
- Rashes
- Vomiting
- Loose motion
- Excessive gas
You can proceed, in case all is well.
No Salt, No Sugar
The kidneys of the baby are still in the process of development. Avoid adding salt. Also avoid sugar and honey. Honey should not be administered before the age of one year.
Maintain Hygiene
Wash hands before feeding. Use clean bowls and spoons. Always prepare fresh food. Do not keep old infant food because of long hours.
Keep Texture Smooth
Babies lack the ability to chew at the age of six months. Food must be soft and runny-like. No lumps to avoid choking.
Continue Breastfeeding
Solid food is complementary. Immunity and nutrition Breast milk remains highly significant.
Sample Simple Food Schedule
Morning: Breastfeeding
In the middle of the day: rice porridge (in small amount)
Afternoon: Breastfeeding
Evening: Mashed fruit or vegetable
Night: Breastfeeding
This is just an example. You would be able to customize according to the routine of your baby.
Foods to Avoid at 6 Months
- Honey
- Salt and sugar
- Cow's milk as main drink
- Nuts in whole form
- Spicy food
- Fried and packaged foods
Foods should never be introduced at a high rate.
Common Doubts Mothers Have
My baby does not eat right. Is it normal?"
Yes. To start with, babies can simply suck and spit food. Be patient. Comparisons with other babies are not to be made.
"My baby makes funny faces. Does that not mean that baby does not like the food?
Not always. It may be a new taste. Try again after a few days.
Would you give packaged baby food?
Home made fresh food is preferred whenever possible. It is economical and healthy.
Make Mealtime Happy
If food spills, it's okay. Provided that baby is playing with food, it is okay. It is part of learning.
Trust Your Mother's Instinct
Each baby develops at his/her pace. There are babies who begin feeding on solids with ease and others require time. Do not panic. Do not feel the pressure of relatives and neighbours.
When your baby is on the go, is growing and achieving milestones, then you are doing a great job.
In case of serious allergic response, persistent vomiting, the inability to gain weight, and unwillingness to eat all the time, contact your pediatrician.
Final Thoughts
It is beautiful to begin first food when one is six months old. Keep it simple. Start slow. Be patient. Continue breastfeeding. And most importantly, have fun in this new adventure with your baby.
Motherhood is not a perfection. It is on love, care, and little things to do. Your infant does not require the extravagant foods. The most essential ingredients are your time, your warmth and attention.
In case this article was helpful to you, please refer other new moms who might be disadvantaged on how to begin solids. Every now and then a little advice can do the trick.
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