Upsets
Sleep disorders, loss of appetite, teething, gum pain,... Each stage has its own minor discomforts related to development. In addition to this, there are also external factors, differences in growth rhythms, and other things that may affect your baby's well-being. We will give you some advice that will help you provide your baby with the well-being he needs and reduce his discomforts.
Minor discomforts during this stage
Nocturnal sleep
Although most babies will have acquired a regular sleep rhythm by this age, some will still have some sleeping difficulties. If your baby finds it difficult to fall asleep or wakes up during the night, check whether he feels well and whether he might be cold or too warm. Also, you can help your baby find a sleep routine: Respect his own schedule, read him a bedtime story, sing him a song, or put him to bed with his teddy and dummy (if he uses one). You can also try feeding him a special milk or infusion that will help him fall asleep. Although it is not always easy, sticking to a schedule will help him relax and sleep better.
Teething and gum pain
The sixth month is when the first teeth come out. This may cause discomfort, such as inflammation of the gums, an increase in salivation, and the need to put everything in their mouth, as that sometimes alleviates the pain. How can you help your baby? You can give them teethers, at a cool temperature if possible, and if your paediatrician advises so, you may give them some analgesic, but you should not apply any products directly onto their gums.
Constipation
The introduction of new types of food may cause a change in the baby's bowel transit. If they have difficulty in passing stools, you can try feeding them more fibre, such as wholegrain cereal baby food, as well as continue with follow-on formulas of type AC and limit their intake of astringent foods that cause hard stools, such as banana, peeled apple, carrot, or rice. You can also help by giving them a massage. See the section “Baby massage”.
Loss of appetite
The introduction of new food types may cause a loss of appetite. New flavours and textures sometimes prove to be too much of a change and cause some children to refuse to eat or lose interest in food. It is not a good idea to force him, but if he finds it difficult to accept a new food type, you can insist a few times, as it may be necessary to offer it to him a few times before he becomes accustomed to its peculiarities. For babies with limited appetite, an alternative to help complement their diet is to give them baby food that has a high content in energy and proteins.
What else can you do?
Present dishes and food in attractive and fun ways. If your baby likes their appearance, it will be easier for him to accept them.
Ensure that the baby food and purées you prepare taste good and have a nice arome and a pleasant texture. You will help your baby feel attracted to the food.
If you can also make the dish creamy, homogeneous, and smooth, your baby is sure to find it irresistible. A way of obtaining this texture is choosing dextrinated baby food.
As always, some babies will find it easier than others to accept new food types. The only trick that works is to be patient. Make sure you are equipped with plenty of patience and the rest will work out of its own accord.
For more information, seek advice from your paediatrician.