Did you just observe your little one looking at you with all the concentration in the world, as she watches your lip movements? As you talk to her, she realizes that the sounds that come from your throat are making distinct sense, so she tries to make them herself. So soon, you shall hear an outpouring of ‘da da da’s and ‘bababa’s! A lot of learning is happening at the sound front, as your baby continues to grasp the flow of vowels, consonants and a whole of words.    

There are more chances of your infant catching some infection or the other- she might either catch a cold or a ear infection. Her ear might become red, or her you will know that she has a cold, with her runny nose. Some babies might just not display any symptoms, so if you feel that she is not looking her usual self, you should think of calling up her pediatrician, just to be sure. If she is running fever, you could try keeping a cold compress on her head. If she has a stuffed nose, and can’t sleep at night, try raising her head at a higher level, with an extra pillow. Many parents swear by alternative remedies, rather than using strong antibiotics prescribed. But each one has his own viewpoint. Some believe that acupressure relieves ordinary maladies, some swear by chiropractics. Sometimes it is just wise to let your instincts lead you to the right solutions.

WHAT SHOULD SHE EAT?

As for the food regimen to be following during this time it is usually scheduled by your doctor. Avoid using honey, any type of nuts, cow milk, the whites of eggs in your baby’s diet as these could cause serious allergies. Ask your doctor if you could give her juices. Be careful to check out for any allergic reaction by your baby to the citrus element found in some fruits.

Organic foods have become the rage now, for their healthy, chemical-free properties. Most parents prefer to use organic vegetables and fruits for their children, but the only drawback is their price. They are expensive and could make your wallet really light! But they are a viable option. Would you like your baby to be exposed to all those chemicals and toxic ingredients found in our daily food?

HOW MUCH SHOULD SHE WEIGH?

Your baby is now more than 5 months old, and she should be steadily gaining weight. If she is not, consult your doctor. Usually weight spikes at intermittent intervals, so the weight gain may be sporadic, but it should be on the increase.

HOW MUCH SHOULD SHE SLEEP?

Your baby will now be sleeping through most of the night, except for some rare instances of waking up. She would by now have established a routine, a kind of set pattern, and will also be taking shorter naps during the day.

While it is important to keep her as warm as possible during winters, and keep the room that she sleeps in sufficiently heated, do not overheat the room, or do not swamp her with too much of woollen clothing. This will suffocate her during the night and could cause serious issues.