What should a 6-month-old baby be doing?

According to the CDC’s 2022 milestone guidelines, most 6-month-olds can: roll both directions, push up on straight arms during tummy time, take turns making sounds with a caregiver, laugh, put objects in their mouth to explore, and recognize familiar faces. Some are beginning to sit with support and reach for objects.

Is my 6-month-old delayed if they can’t sit up?

Not necessarily. The CDC lists independent sitting as a 9-month milestone, not a 6-month one. At 6 months, most babies sit with support (propped up by their own hands or a parent). Sitting fully unsupported by 6 months is early; not sitting at all by 9 months warrants a pediatric evaluation.

What weight should a 6-month-old be?

Average weight ranges (WHO growth charts, 2026): boys 15.9–19.4 lb (7.2–8.8 kg); girls 14.6–18.5 lb (6.6–8.4 kg). Your pediatrician tracks percentile trends — a baby steadily following the 15th percentile is healthier than one bouncing between percentiles.

When do babies start solids?

Most babies are ready around 6 months when they meet three signs: (1) good head and trunk control, (2) sitting with minimal support, and (3) showing interest in food (opening mouth, watching you eat). Starting before 4 months is not recommended.

How much should a 6-month-old sleep?

12–16 hours per 24-hour day: typically 10–12 hours at night (with 1–2 wakings) and 2–3 daytime naps totaling 3–4 hours.

What are red flags at 6 months?

The CDC recommends talking to your pediatrician if your 6-month-old: doesn’t try to get things in reach, shows no affection for caregivers, doesn’t respond to sounds around them, has difficulty getting things to mouth, doesn’t roll in either direction, doesn’t laugh or make squealing sounds, or seems very stiff or very floppy.

Is it normal for my 6-month-old not to be sitting independently?

Yes. Most babies sit independently between 6 and 8 months. Tripod sitting (briefly, leaning on hands) is more typical at 6 months. Concern arises if no sitting attempts by 9 months.

When should my baby say ‘mama’ or ‘dada’ meaningfully?

Non-specific ‘mama/dada’ babbling is common at 6 months. Meaningful use (referring to the right parent) typically emerges between 9 and 14 months.

Should I worry if my baby skips crawling?

No. About 7% of babies skip crawling entirely and go straight from sitting to scooting or pulling to stand. As long as mobility and weight-bearing develop, skipping crawl is not a problem.

How many naps should a 6-month-old take?

Most 6-month-olds take 2–3 naps totaling 3–4 hours, with overnight sleep of 10–12 hours.

When can my baby drink water?

Small amounts of water (1–4 oz/day) are fine once solids start around 6 months. Water should not replace milk feeds before 12 months.

What vaccines does my baby get at the 6-month visit?

Typically DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV13, Hep B (third dose), and an annual influenza vaccine if in season. Schedules may vary slightly by country and clinic.

What are the main 6-month baby milestones?

The CDC 2022 milestones for 6 months are: rolling in both directions, pushing up on straight arms during tummy time, taking turns making sounds, laughing, putting objects in mouth to explore, and recognizing familiar faces.

Should a 6-month-old be crawling?

No — crawling is a 9-month CDC milestone, not a 6-month one. At 6 months, most babies are rolling and beginning to sit. Some skip crawling entirely and go straight to cruising and walking, which is normal.

How much food should a 6-month-old eat?

Start with 1–2 tablespoons of pureed food 1–2 times per day. Breast milk or formula remains the primary nutrition source (24–32 oz per day). Increase solids gradually over 4–6 weeks as baby shows interest.