My Baby This Week -- Your 7 month old, second week

You've always known that you and your baby are two separate creatures, but she hasn't. To her, the two of you are one - she has no identity of her own yet. When you put her in front of a mirror, she doesn't even realise that the baby she sees is herself. But this month she'll make a huge mental leap and finally understand that she's an individual, with her own body, thoughts, and feelings. This jump in understanding opens the door to her growing emotional and physical independence, which will take years to fully develop.

Find out more fascinating facts about your seven-month-old's development.

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Independent eating
As your baby gains coordination, you will find it easier to begin introducing finger foods for her to try - offer rusks, slices of banana, pieces of pear - anything that goes soft when chewed. And if she grabs the spoon at mealtimes, try giving her one of her own. There'll be a lot of mess but it will pay dividends in the future when she really can feed herself. Once a baby starts experimenting with feeding herself, a bib is essential.

• Other good ideas for finger foods.
• Check out our yummy treats for babies this age.
• Is it safe for babies to eat raisins?

My Baby This Week -- Your 7 month old, first week

Has your baby turned into a bouncing machine? This game is fun for him now if he can support his weight on his legs. What's more, he can probably sit unsupported, which will free his hands for exploring. At this age he'll also probably start reaching for things and scooping them up with one hand. You can encourage his independence and new skills by placing a toy just out of his reach. After a few tries, he'll be able to lean forward to grab it and then straighten himself again. You may notice him turn things round now, finding out what they look like upside down or sideways. And of course, he'll wonder what everything tastes like, too.

Find out more fascinating facts about your seven-month-old.

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The truth about teething
If your baby has started teething, you can expect his first teeth to appear about now. His lower front teeth will probably break through first. But a few babies start with their top teeth and others don't produce any teeth at all until their first birthday, so if yours is one of them, don't worry. In the meantime, though, don't forget that baby teeth need brushing as soon as they appear.

• Teething: everything you need to know.
• Could teething be the reason why your baby is waking at night?
• How to make your teething baby more comfortable.