how can i get my 5 month old to take a pacifier?

Is there a specific reason you want your little one to take one? There are some moms who prefer pacifiers and some who prefer thumbs. I prefer thumbs, mainly because my son didn't want a pacifier after about 3 months and started sucking his thumb. If your little one really doesn't want the pacifier, you can encourage thumb sucking by placing his/her thumb in his/her mouth and holding it there for a few seconds so he/she realizes that he/she can do it.

If the baby doesn't want the pacifier you should not try to force it on them. Some kids just don't like them.

Around 4 months, all three of my kids showed dis-interest in pacifiers, so just took them away. Sometimes I wish they would take it (like when they are screaming in the car), but I was lucky enough to never have to break the habit later on. Is there a reason you want your little one to take a pacifier?