Parenting pro-tip: anything you buy for a baby that's hit 6/7th month mark, get it two sizes big. At the very least. Don't buy fancy stuff unless you're sure of an event, buy there and then. Look for the most economical options, thrift it if you have to. Family/friends are happy

To share/lend. Use that money on basic toys. Your 6mo won't get the workings of a complex toy even if he enjoys it, he'll get bored of it and when the time's right, he won't play with it. Basic toys pass the time. Babies don't play w/ toys anyway.

Unless absolutely necessary, don't engage babies in more than two sets of toys at one time, don't push them.
Outdoors works wonders, even if in the stroller. Take them out. They'll learn/adapt quickly.

Introduce pets only if you can MANAGE.

They grow faster once they hit the 12m mark. They get bored quicker. Screentime becomes inevitable, use a playlist. Shuffle it. TV is better than laptop/mobile. Always. It takes 20 mins on avg for my baby to get bored so he starts playing around. See how your child behaves.

The quality of clothes unless imported ain't worth hoarding. Wash them, pack them, share them with someone in need. You'll be surprised how many of your own circle shares that. Needy ones are always a priority of course.

Baby gear that was necessary for me (I was in transit all of 2020): walker at 6m, stroller at 5m, i introduced feeding chair at 6m, he's adapted it as an ally now at 13m+, let them get used to it. You'll be at peace later. Always ensure safety belts. They'll stop fidgeting soon.

Car seat is still something we're struggling with. Get it if you can afford. Get economical gear. Don't overspend. Thrift it but check the quality before buying.

Please don't overspend on your babies. As a mom who's literally raised the baby so far on bare minimum (mian still says it's all too much), I can not emphasize enough on this. Their needs outweigh any luxury you think is a 'cute' option. 'cute' will haunt you later. SAVE for them

If nothing else. The economy has hit everyone alike. Save up. Every penny. Think twice before spending any penny on something that's not a necessity. Put that money away instead. Again, find economical options for feeders/teethers/sterilizers, boil them if it comes down to that.

Most importantly, FIND YOUR BALANCE. See what works for you in the first 6-7 months. Carry that forward. Routine is important for babies. It's okay when the growth spurts and teething hits. Things change. Make them a routine asap.

My child's routine has been our only saving grace. We're lucky that way, I know. And I have nothing but immense respect for all the parents who are managing their babies however they can.
Enjoy your child's moments. As much as you can. This tough time that feels like years goes

By like a second. Trust me on this. You'll want to hit rewind every single day.