Life with Baby...On the Go!
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Life with baby: you may not be the only one on the go these days. Your baby may be showing signs that he or she may be on the move soon. It may not be long before your baby crawls!
The age that a baby first crawls varies. On average, babies may crawl as early as 6 months, or as late as 13 months.
Over the last few months, your baby has not only grown bigger, they have grown stronger. This includes the trunk of their body (mid-section), as well as their hips. Your baby has also acquired head control and is learning how to balance their body. You may find that your baby is rolling over, stomach to back and then over again, and they may also be able to sit up independently. This progressive growth means they are well on their way to having acquired the skills they will need.
Before your baby officially takes off and moves across the room, you may see them:
- Moving from a sitting position to one where they are on their hands and knees
- Rocking back and forth on their knees and hands
Next thing you know, your baby has learned that they may push off with their knees and ta-da - they can move forward!
Like all development, the pace at which a baby progresses through this series of steps, leading them to be a proficient crawler, may differ. In fact, some babies never crawl and may proceed right to standing and/or walking. Some babies may acquire movements different than traditional hands and knees crawl (such as scooting on their bottom, etc.). You may also see your baby move backwards more easily than forwards. Babies are certainly individuals, and each will do it differently.
Before your baby is up and running (or crawling!), be sure to have baby proofed your home. Although small in size, they can be fast!
Babies are curious and active learners. Want to see the world from their view? Take the time to get down in a crawling position and take in the world. Be mindful of any items that may pose a health or safety risk to your child (it's time to make sure those baby gates are up!).
