Weeks 17-18:

The baby is almost 5 months old with more skills—when on their stomach, they can lift arms and legs, and most can prop up the body with small arms to move from lying to sitting. Note: Babies can't sit for long yet as waist muscles are still weak. If complementary foods are introduced, messy eating is normal—no need to worry. This is the teething period: babies may chew randomly, drool excessively, and become fussy due to gum soreness, possibly with low fever or poor sleep. Vaccine Reminder: Schedule the third polio and second DTaP vaccine. For questions, use Yili Aier Club's Facebook/Whatsapp "Aier Vaccine" feature or contact online customer service.

5 Tips for Teething Period

1. Emotional Comfort
   Babies are easily fussy—soothe with gentle touch and soft words to provide warmth and comfort.
2. Hygiene Care
   Ensure objects in the baby's hands are clean or disinfected to prevent unclean items from entering the mouth.
3. Teething Ring for Gum Relief
   Provide a silicone teething ring for chewing to alleviate gum discomfort.
4. Add Teething Biscuits
   Offer baby teething biscuits to chew, which can also ease soreness.
5. Nutrient Supplementation
   Supplement vitamins D, calcium, phosphorus, etc., and take the baby outdoors for sunlight.

Weeks 19-20:

The baby's motor skills are improving—they love bouncing up and down when placed on your legs. They start babbling, show memory, recognize tastes, and enjoy throwing objects. Concern: Diaper rash may occur. If untreated, it can lead to perianal skin ulcers or even abscesses. Care Steps: Change diapers frequently, wash the bottom, and keep it dry. Contact Yili Aier Club for parenting questions via Facebook/Whatsapp.

How to Handle Diaper Rash

1. Clean After Bowel Movements
   Rinse with water and pat dry gently with a soft cloth—avoid rubbing.
2. Frequent Diaper Changes
   Use breathable diapers/wipes and change immediately after urination/defecation.
3. Apply Diaper Rash Cream
   Use rash cream or tannic acid ointment after cleaning. Avoid baby powder, as it can cause irritation when wet.
4. Local Baking
   For severe redness, use an infrared lamp to dry the area 1-2 times daily for 15 minutes (maintain safe distance and temperature). Consult a doctor if needed.

Weeks 21-22:

Nearly 6 months old, the baby shows richer expressions, more communication, and diverse sounds. They master rolling over, sit without support (but can't crawl yet), and grasp bottles/toys to shake. Key Tasks: Start complementary foods (follow science to avoid digestion issues) and schedule the third DTaP vaccine. Use Yili Aier Club's vaccine query service for questions.

Scientific Principles for Complementary Foods

1. Choose the Right Time
   Add during morning/noon/evening meals or when the baby is in a good mood for better acceptance.
2. Create a Feeding Environment
   Turn off TV/music, place the baby in a high chair with a bib to establish routine.
3. Food Selection
   Start with fortified rice cereal (calcium/iron/zinc, "double green guarantee" rice). Add mashed vegetables, meat, egg yolk, porridge, noodles gradually. Avoid egg white, cow's milk, shellfish, and soy before age 1.
4. 4 Key Principles
   From less to more, thin to thick, fine to coarse, one to multiple. Observe for allergies after the first try.
5. Frequency
   4-6 months: 1-2 times/day; 6-8 months: 2-3 times/day; 9-11 months: gradually increase; 12-24 months: adjust as needed.

Weeks 23-24:

The baby loves throwing objects to attract attention, has stronger legs for rolling, and tries self-feeding with hands/spoons. Attention: Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, constipation) are common. Focus on intestinal health. Contact Yili Aier Club for support.

4 Steps to Prevent Diarrhea

1. Reasonable Feeding
   Offer small frequent meals—avoid overfeeding to reduce intestinal burden.
2. Scientific Food Processing
   Choose warm, soft, easy-to-digest foods and process them appropriately for babies.
3. Cleanliness Practices
   Wipe toys/furniture with water regularly and wash hands before feeding.
4. Avoid Infection Sources
   Keep the baby away from crowded places, contaminated items, and sick children.