Can you believe it’s been half a year already? Many moms will tell you the days are long but the weeks and months go by quickly. And it’s true!

It’s typical for 6-month-old babies to:

• Start teething, which can make them a little fussier than usual and prone to mouthing any object they get their hands on (teething can begin as early as 4 months or as late as around 12 months)
   
• Start to crawl, which can occur anytime between now and 10 months—or push into a crawling position and rock back and forth
   
• Sit and stand with support; roll over
   
• Recognize a few oft-repeated words, such as “eat,” “nap” or “bath”
   
• Begin to recognize own name

• Start to pick up on social queues—such as smiling to attract attention and responding to you when you interact
   
• Show and express a range of emotions, including happiness, sadness and anger

Just remember:  All babies are different and develop at their own pace. Developmental milestones occur over a range of time because of this.

If your infant hasn’t yet reached some of these milestones, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.

Talk with your baby’s healthcare provider about any developmental concerns, including if your baby ...

• Shows little interest in others
   
• Rarely smiles or babbles
   
• Does not make eye contact and rarely points a finger at something
   
• Cannot sit up with support
   
• Has difficulty swallowing puréed baby food (pushes it out of the mouth instead of swallowing) 

See also ... 

•  Baby’s first tooth: 7 facts parents need to know

•  What your 6-month-old is learning and experiencing

•  Looking ahead: Development at 7 months

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.