Care for a Baby from 7 Months to 1 Year:
Taking care of a baby between 7 months and 1 year involves proper food, sleep, health, safety, and mental development. Daily care is essential for the baby’s nutrition and growth.
1. Food and Nutrition:
✅ Breast Milk: Breast milk or formula should be the primary food until the baby is 1 year old.
✅ Solid Foods: From 7 months to 1 year, introduce 2-3 solid meals a day.
✅ Food Types: Khichuri, dal-rice, boiled egg yolk, vegetables, fruits (banana, papaya, apple, pear), oats, suji, yogurt, cheese.
✅ Water: Provide boiled or filtered water to the baby.
✅ New Foods: Introduce new foods one at a time and observe for 3-4 days for any allergic reactions.
2. Sleep Routine:
✅ Sleep Requirements: A baby at 1 year needs around 13-14 hours of sleep a day, with 10-12 hours at night and 2-3 hours during the day.
✅ Sleeping Environment: Ensure the room is calm, safe, and comfortable.
✅ Establish a Routine: Create a routine before sleep, like bathing, playing soft music, or reading a story.
3. Health and Hygiene:
✅ Vaccinations: Ensure the baby gets all required vaccinations.
✅ Health Checkups: Monitor the baby’s weight and height to ensure proper growth.
✅ Hygiene: Clean the baby’s hands and face regularly, and start brushing their teeth with a soft brush.
✅ Protection from Cold and Heat: Protect the baby from extreme temperatures.
4. Safety:
✅ Safety in the Home: Keep sharp objects and harmful substances away from the baby. Install safety gates near stairs.
✅ Toys: Choose safe toys that don’t have small parts or sharp edges.
5. Mental and Social Development:
✅ Play: Use colorful books, building blocks, balls, or music to stimulate play.
✅ Talking: Engage in conversations with the baby, tell stories, and talk to them regularly.
✅ Understanding Emotions: Be patient and try to understand the reasons behind the baby’s crying.