#asktheexpert my baby girl is 6 months old, yet she is not crawling, but she is trying a lot to do so. she is also not seating on its own. is everything okay, or i need to see a pediatrician.

Question

Accepted Answer

Here are some nutritious food options you can introduce to your 7-month-old baby:

1. Fruits

Banana: Mashed or pureed.

Avocado: Soft and creamy; can be mashed.

Apple: Cooked and pureed or offered as applesauce.

Pear: Cooked and mashed or pureed.

2. Vegetables

Sweet Potato: Steamed or boiled, then mashed or pureed.

Carrot: Cooked until soft and pureed or mashed.

Pumpkin: Cooked and mashed or pureed.

Peas: Cooked and mashed or pureed.

3. Cereals and Grains

Rice Cereal: Mixed with breast milk or formula for a smoother consistency.

Oatmeal: Cooked and mixed with water, breast milk, or formula.

Quinoa: Cooked and mashed.

4. Protein Sources

Lentils: Cooked until soft and pureed.

Chicken: Cooked and pureed or finely shredded.

Egg yolk: Hard-boiled and mashed (ensure there are no allergies).

5. Dairy (if introduced)

Yogurt: Plain, unsweetened yogurt can be introduced as a healthy snack.

Cheese: Soft cheese, such as cottage cheese, in small pieces.

6. Finger Foods (for practice)

Soft-cooked vegetable sticks: Such as carrots or sweet potatoes.

Puffed rice or teething biscuits: For self-feeding practice.

Tips for Introducing Foods:

Start with Single Ingredients: This helps identify any allergies.

Consistency: Begin with pureed foods and gradually introduce more textured foods as your baby gets used to eating.

Observe for Allergies: Introduce new foods one at a time and watch for any adverse reactions.

Hydration: Ensure your baby stays hydrated, especially as solid foods are introduced.

Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to ensure they are suitable for your baby's dietary needs.

Accepted Answer

At six months old, it's normal for babies to be at different stages of development, but there are some general milestones that you can expect. Here are a few points regarding your concerns:

1. Sitting Up: Most babies start sitting up with support around 4-6 months and can sit independently by about 6-8 months. If your baby is trying to sit but hasn't done so independently yet, it's usually not a cause for concern, especially if she's actively trying.

2. Crawling and Quarreling: Babies typically begin to crawl between 6-10 months. If she's showing interest in moving or quarreling (like rocking back and forth or pushing herself), that's a good sign of her developing motor skills.

3. Developmental Variations: Every baby develops at their own pace, and some may reach certain milestones earlier or later than others.

4. When to Consult a Pediatrician: If you're concerned about her development, such as not showing interest in activities, not responding to sounds, or if she seems to be falling behind in other areas (like social interaction), it's a good idea to consult your pediatrician. They can provide guidance and assess her development more thoroughly.

Overall, while some variation is normal, keeping an eye on her progress is important. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance and advice.