6-Months, makes for sweet nostalgia of yesteryear

Bradley will officially be 6 months this week. One of the hardest decisions was when to start solid food. The doc said he was ready at 5 months. However, after just a few days I felt like his digestive track wasn't ready as he was getting sick after each meal. So, now that the 6-month is approaching we are carefully trying again (with success this time). We knew it was time when we couldn't keep his hands from reaching for our plates, he was sitting up unsupported, and when he started feeding himself imaginary food from his bowl and spoon. During meal time we have him sit with us with his play dinnerware set as we eat delicious food and he eats, well, air. He politely 'chews' with his mouth closed and stares with amazement at all of mommy and daddy's food.

We have been trying to incorporate a lot of Montessori methods into our daily life, and self-feeding is one of them. It was tricky finding cups and plates that were of the perfect size and weight. Most children's spoons are too heavy or too long for them to maneuver. Also, most cups (such as a teacup as we have) are too heavy or far too large requiring the child to use both hands which defeats the purpose. Maria Montessori would have suggested using all glass. However, being a modern mom I just found some 'weighted' BPA-free plastic ones. He is especially good at using the teacup, probably because he sees mommy chug down a cup of coffee every morning.

Another way we have implemented the Montessori technique is by putting emphasis on wooden toys. We found a great toy shop, Brilliant Toy's which have educational toys and a large selection of Montessori-type toys. He got him a wooden baby rattle which he is happy to chew on and hold. Soon the small pieces, similar to a abacus (on the rattle) will be even more intriguing to him. I like how a lot of the toys like this grow with him.

We started doing some early learning programs as well. Another fellow mommy has started her own company that places such emphasis, Foundations Early Learning. We rotate daily with flashcards (some store bought that are straight to the point and some self-made with real photos of Mommy, Daddy, and other family members), Brillkids Little Readers Program, and Baby Signing Time DVDs. He usually is only interested in about 10-15 minutes. As this age, he mostly enjoys direct one-on-one contact such as singing, signing or talking. "If you're happy and you know it" still wins every time with a smile or full-on belly laugh.

The Psychology major has really come out in me as I research early-learning techniques and the modern Montessori methods. I say modern because too rigid is just impracticable. Maria Montessori, for example, didn't believe in infant seats or swings. However, Bradley can only take about 10-15 minutes of tummy time before he is frustrated (he is currently in the scooting stage). So, small durations in the swing or doorway jumper is perfect while mommy is preparing dinner. Another life-saver has been the Ergo Baby Carrier so that I can get some housework done (or fitting in those ever-so-small wine shops).

Last night was a time of reflection as we went through old photos of birth pictures to present. He's getting bigger and taller every day! He's now up to 20 lbs. WOW. We often think, what was life like before Bradley? Seems like so long ago, even if was just a mere 6 months ago that I was sitting on the beach, huge belly, being asked by strangers if I was having twins. :P