Crawling - the important developmental milestone for babies

Crawling is an important developmental milestone for babies

What to do when children skip crawling and go straight to walking

Crawling is an important developmental milestone for babies, as it strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and helps both sides of the brain work together. However, some babies may skip crawling and go straight to walking. If this happens, you may wonder if it’s something to worry about. While skipping crawling isn’t uncommon, encouraging your child to spend time crawling can still have benefits.

Why Crawling Matters

Crawling is more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It helps build the muscles in your baby’s arms, legs, shoulders, and core, which are essential for balance and coordination later on. Crawling also supports the development of hand-eye coordination and visual tracking, skills that will come in handy when your child starts reading and writing.

If Your Baby Skips Crawling

If your child shows a preference for walking without having spent much time crawling, don’t worry. Some children simply develop at their own pace, and each milestone is reached differently. However, it's still a good idea to encourage some crawling practice, even after they’ve started walking.

Encouraging Crawling Even After Walking

There are a few gentle ways to help your baby crawl even if they seem more interested in walking:

- **Tummy Time:** Ensure your baby gets enough tummy time. Laying them on their stomach strengthens the muscles needed for crawling.

- **Create a Fun Crawling Environment:** Set up a play area with toys at different levels on the floor to entice your child to crawl to them.

- **Model Crawling:** Sometimes babies are encouraged to crawl if they see you doing it! Get on the floor and show them how much fun crawling can be.

- **The Hand Towel Trick:** You can assist your baby by using a towel. Fold the towel lengthwise and place it under their chest, with the ends coming out under their arms. Hold the ends of the towel and gently lift, reducing some of the weight your baby has to support. This makes it easier for them to get into the crawling position and practice moving their arms and legs. Often, babies have weak arm or leg muscles that make crawling difficult. By giving them a bit of support, you allow them to build the strength needed to move more easily.

Give Them Time

Every baby develops at their own pace, and while crawling is beneficial, it’s important to let your baby explore movement in their own way. Encourage crawling without forcing it. Celebrate all their milestones, big or small, knowing that they are growing and learning every day.

In summary, even if your child skips crawling, you can still help them build important motor skills. With patience, encouragement, and playful practice, you can guide your baby through this important phase of their development.