Baby Must Haves: 6-9 months

I cannot believe I have already made it through the first nine months with my little guy. They were long and hard, especially during that very real 4th trimester. Months six to nine really have been so much fun, though! He has grown and changed drastically. I love so much about every stage with my children, but I really think nine month olds are up there as one of my favorites. They are so sweet, playful, innocent, and wonderful. I think this age is what you would find in the dictionary if you looked up 'baby'. Sweet, precious goodness, and smiles for days.

I have rounded up some of my favorite items over the past few months. After having two babies, these are the things that truly have been game changers for us!

1. A jumperoo is an absolute must. Both of my boys got so much use out of this thing. There are a lot of varieties out there, but this one allows a lot of 'bouncing', and doesn't limit baby on how much they can use their little legs. There are lots of toys for entertainment, and heights can be adjusted as baby grows. We tested out a few others, but I can say with confidence that this one will not be a regret!

2. Both of my boys went through phases of refusing the pacifier, but once we did a bit of sleep training, the wubbanub was a life saver. Our sweet boy now uses this thing all of the time. The sweet plush toy acts a bit like a stuffed animal, so when bedtime comes, it is a natural piece that our little guy can snuggle with and get some extra comfort. And, they are adorable. Is there anything cuter than a baby with a pacifier? I think not!

3. One thing I purchased for my first baby that I would never do the second time around was shoes. They fall off, bother baby, and really are just not worth the effort. Even now at nine months, Lincoln doesn't wear shoes all that often. However, I have found that moccasins are the best option when you do want your little one donning something on their precious feet. The elastic around the ankles and the fact that they slide on easily yet also stay on is huge. They are great for new walkers too, because they are lightweight and don't hinder baby in learning to move on their own.

4. Both of my boys have drooled a ridiculous amount. So much, in fact, that they would soak through 4-5 bibs a day. Ick. A lot of bibs didn't hold moisture well, and once I discovered bandana bibs I really didn't look back. They are absorbent, super soft, and sit around baby's neck so much more comfortably. I bought them in bulk packs, and once I started using them I basically did away with all of our old bibs. And they are so cute and trendy! I love that they are a drool catcher disguised as a trendy little accessory ;-)

5. I do not, and do not know if I ever will, understand the whole Sophie the Giraffe trend, but without fail, every single baby loves this toy! Something with its design is so perfect for a teething baby. I would have laughed at anyone who told me I would spend $25 on a teething toy, but after buying at least that much in failed products, I can tell you that silly little giraffe is 100% worth the investment.

6. During this stage, both of my boys learned to roll over during the night. Which usually resulted in a rough sleep period for our entire house. This time around, I was lucky enough to receive a DockATot, and it is AMAZING. It provides comfort, protection, and stability for baby. While my now mobile little guy certainly can roll over when he is awake and active, it keeps him pretty darn stationary while asleep. It is also amazing for when you are on the go. We throw it in the trunk and bring it to grandma's house for easy naptime, without the hassle of dangerous bed naps surrounded by pillows. We love our DockATot!

7. Perhaps this is less of a need for those in warmer climates, but we need hats every day for about six months out of the year with our babies, and these beanies are a favorite! Thick hats are great, but those little babies are toasty creatures, and these beanies are lightweight, while still being warm. They are also fitted great, so they work on newborns with a roll or two around the bottom, yet unrolled will even comfortably fit my toddler. They come in so many cute colors and styles, too! I die a thousand deaths every time I see my baby rocking a beanie. It is too cute to handle.

8. I learned quickly that the road to solid foods is different with every baby. My first was a huge baby food fan, while Lincoln will barely touch the stuff. Baby led weaning has been our process this time around, and it was really our baby's choice. Both of my boys have loved puffs, though. They are wonderful for helping with hand-eye coordination, and don't fill baby up too much, so they are nice to give when we are trying to prep dinner and can stick our little guy in his high chair with a snack! They also dissolve pretty darn quickly, so they are a great transitional tool for babies who don't quite have the ability to eat many solids, but are learning!

9. It gets cold here in the winter. And nothing is worse than trying to decide whether to let your baby freeze at night, or risk covering them with blankets, which we have all learned is a no-no. My little guy loves to be snuggly, so I was stumped for awhile. My dear friend Brittany posted on Swaddle Designs sleep sacks, and once I gave them a try, I was hooked! You zip baby up, and it is like a wearable blanket. I got the fleece versions, but the cotton versions would be wonderful during the warmer months. We have multiples, and use them without fail for every nap and bedtime. They provide security and warmth, without any of the risk!

What are some of your favorite items for your baby during this stage? There are so many products out there nowadays, and I love to hear what works for others!

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