Learning to Crawl: Why it Matters & How to Help
October 7, 2025
Helping Your Baby Crawl
When your baby starts crawling, they’re ready to take on the world! They go from just watching the world to moving and doing things on their own. We talked with a physical therapist from Any Baby Can's Early Childhood Intervention program to learn more about why babies crawl. She gave us tips on how you can encourage your child through this important step in their development.
Every child’s journey is unique! But crawling is a huge developmental milestone that often happens between 7 and 10 months of age. This time of exploration and discovery lays the foundation for many important skills. Plus, it's fun to see your baby explore the world—just be ready to start babyproofing!
Why Crawling Matters
Crawling is more than just a way for your little one to move through his environment. It’s a workout for the body and the brain that helps develop a range of skills, including:
- Gross and Fine Motor Skills: Crawling makes their arms, legs, back and neck stronger. It also strengthens their hand muscles and hand-eye coordination.
- Balance and Awareness: Crawling helps with vestibular (balance) and depth perception. Babies also learn spatial awareness as they navigate their environment.
- Cognitive Development: Crawling encourages problem-solving and curiosity, which are important for cognitive growth.
The weeks or months spent on all fours before pulling up to stand and walk are very important. Crawling helps prepare the baby to navigate through his environment.
Does my baby need to crawl?
Some babies may skip crawling—or crawl for a very short time—and prefer to pull up to stand and go straight to walking. This can be fine too.
How your baby crawls isn't as important. Some babies prefer "commando" (on their belly) or “hitch” (where they push with one foot while on the other knee). If your baby is making progress and moving, celebrate their unique style!
However, you should encourage your baby to get on their hands and knees! It benefits their strength and coordination, regardless of their mode of transportation.
If your child isn't crawling or moving independently by their first birthday, talk to your pediatrician. Parents can request an Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) assessment without a doctor's referral. However, it’s always recommended that you discuss any developmental concerns or delays with your child's doctor.
How can I help my baby learn to crawl?
Tummy Time is Key: Start with tummy time from an early age. This helps your baby strengthen the muscles in their neck, shoulders and back. These muscles are essential for lifting themselves up to a crawling position. Some babies resist tummy time. We have a great video from one of our physical therapists showing you ways to encourage tummy time that your child will actually enjoy!
Reach and Grab: Place a favorite toy just out of your baby’s reach during tummy time. This encourages them to push up and reach, which strengthens their arms and core. Remember that it's hard to hold things while laying on your belly! Make sure the toys fit easily in your child's hand. And if the toy moves on its own (like a ball), that's even better.
Pivot: Pivoting is when a baby rotates on their belly. It’s much easier for babies to push than to pull. It’s normal for babies to go backwards when they first start crawling! By moving objects to their sides, rather than right in front of them, they will start to pivot. This helps shift weight from one side as they rotate.
Lift off the ground: Raised surfaces to help babies gain strength in their hips and hands to crawl on all fours. Use low couch cushions, rolled-up blankets, or even your legs to create small, soft "mountains" for your baby to crawl over.
Is it ok if my baby skips crawling?
Not all kids who skip crawling develop learning or behavioral disabilities. However, it can be one sign of other developmental delays. A baby's overall strength, posture, coordination, or hand function may be affected if they skip crawling.
Even if your child skips crawling, encourage them to do hands-and-knees activities like going through tunnels and climbing.
- Create an Obstacle Course: Even older kids love to climb over cushions or through tunnels. This makes getting around a fun challenge.
- Crawl with Them!: Get down on the floor and crawl with your baby. This shows them how it's done and makes it a fun activity you can do together.
- Use a Play Tunnel: A small pop-up play tunnel can be a great way to encourage crawling. Babies love to crawl through them to get to a toy or a parent waiting at the other end.
Video With Tips to Encourage Your Baby to Crawl
Enjoy this wonderful, wobbly stage—it's a time of amazing growth and discovery for everyone!
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RELATED LINKS
Early Childhood Intervention
We offer services to help children with developmental or physical challenges reach their full potential.
Child Development Services
Help your child grow and thrive with in-home therapies, as well as coaching for parents and caregivers.
Tummy Time Your Baby Will Love
Learn to make this routine more enjoyable and effective for everyone!
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