6 Month Old Baby Development: Play with Baby Toys

You and your baby are best buddies these days. You're sharing everything from mashed bananas to bowel movements. And, curiously, unlike with your other best friends, the bowel movement stuff isn't TMI.
What You're Thinking: "Me and my baby are totally BFFs ... or at least until he's 12 and realizes that I'm so 'not cool.'"

• By now, your baby is probably very good at getting everything into his mouth. Did he learn that watching you with the pint of Ben & Jerry's? Either way, watch out for toys with small parts and other potential choking hazards around the house.
• Your baby will enjoy playing for longer periods of time now, so feel free to extend your play sessions, i.e., 47 rounds of peek-a-boo instead of 26.
• Though baby hasn't yet mastered the art of screaming "Mama" and "Dada" at the top of his lungs just yet, he is likely beginning to develop his own system for getting your attention through various noises and movements. He'll continue to hone this plan over the coming months ... until he does finally master the art of screaming "Mama" and "Dada" at the top of her lungs.

• You didn't cry when your baby got her 6-month shots (but you were definitely tearing up).
• You find yourself wanting to buy toys that your child can't even play with for months (and sometimes years) to come. Now who is that Slip 'n' Slide really for, hmmm?
• You're becoming proficient at removing food stains from clothing.
• You finally gave your stroller a much-needed cleaning (and found things in the grooves that you don't want to talk about).

At 6 months old, you may be finding that your baby is tiring of her "regular toys" (i.e., her feet, her toes and your keys). When you and she are ready to take it up a notch in the toy department, check out our tips on fabulous baby toys that she'll love to play with, but that won't break the bank. Read more ...

• My baby has a temperature of 99 degrees. Should I call the doctor?
• Make Your Own Baby Toys
• How early can I tell if my child has autism?
• Should my newborn get a flu shot?

Do It: Walk Like an Egyptian
Grab your Mini and get those legs ready for a different kind of "mini." (Yes, we're talking about a skirt!)
Buy It: Feed Me Spoons With Covers
Keep baby's utensils clean anywhere, anytime.
Do It: I'm Gonna Kiss You
Use this cute baby-body-parts game as an excuse to smooch your kid.
Discuss It: Chat with other new mamas and papas on our Baby Board.

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All babies grow and develop at different rates. So please don't compare your kid with so-and-so's baby from across the street—you'll just drive yourself nuts. If you have any concerns, bring them up with your pediatrician at your baby's next checkup.