Your 6-month-old still has a limited social life. He can recognize his mom and dad, and he enjoys it when someone plays with him or talks to him. But at this age, he doesn't give much thought to other people.

His notion of "love" may be primitive, but he still needs plenty of it. You should comfort him when he cries and give him lots of cuddles. At this age, it's impossible to spoil him. He just needs to know that you're there for him. Don't worry if he's not always in the mood for cuddling. Some babies are just naturally less affectionate than others. But if he absolutely refuses to cuddle under any circumstances, you should tell his doctor. This isn't normal.

You are more to him than just a walking security blanket. You're also a tour guide to the world. Your baby is becoming more interested in his environment, and he needs your help to explore. He wants go along on walks and trips to the grocery store. He also wants to you to bring him toys and show him how to use them. You'll be stimulating his mind while you strengthen your bond.

As you've undoubtedly noticed, your baby already has his own personality. He may be reserved or outgoing, gentle or rowdy, happy or irritable. At this point, his personality is largely inherited; there isn't much you can do to shape it. Instead of trying to change his personality, you should adapt to it. If he acts shy and reserved, give him a little extra attention but don't force him to play with other children. If he's grumpy, he may need plenty of cuddles and soothing words. And if he's strong-willed, now's the time to practice your patience. You'll need plenty of it in the coming months and years.

Your baby is finding new ways to interact with the people around him. Most notably, he's learning how to express his moods. This is an age for belly laughs and sad faces. He can growl when he's mad and clap his arms together when he's excited. Clapping may be one of his favorite activities. After all, it's an exciting time -- for both of you.

-- Chris Woolston, MS, a health and medical writer with a master's degree in biology, is a contributing editor at Consumer Health Interactive. He was a staff writer at Hippocrates, a magazine for physicians, and has also covered science issues for Time Inc. Health, WebMD, and the Chronicle of Higher Education.

References

First published December 9, 2005
Last updated August 29, 2008
Copyright © 2005 Consumer Health Interactive

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