Developmental Milestones - On the Move

There is a great variety in the times when babies start to “achieve” what we label as motor milestones. This just means that there are certain gross motor activities that everyone learns to do to get their bodies moving. As parents we all want to know if our precious child is OK and doing well at what they need to do, when they need to do it. Remember that individuals vary; some babies will do things earlier than others, some will take longer. If it seems to be a fair time delay, just call us or call and check with a health professional who specialises working with children, because friends, family and others tell you lots of different things. So here is a general guideline of what to expect from your baby in gross motor skills as they learn and develop…when they begin to be “on the move”:

Rolling

4 to 6 months

Creeping

(Pulling themselves along the ground)

6 to 8 months

Sitting

Sits with support around 6 months

Sits alone on floor for 10-15 minutes by around 9 months

Crawling

8 to 10 months

Pulling to stand

10 to 12 months

Babies pull themselves into a kneeling position to play to start, then pull to stand via the kneeling and half kneeling (one foot forward) position.

Cruising

( Walking sideways along the furniture and other objects)

10 to 12 months

Walking

12 to 15 months

These are the major steps a child takes as they learn to move. It’s also important to realise that a baby needs to be able to independently move between positions. If they can only sit when you place them there, or they scream for you to come and save them to get back down on the ground, there may be a reason why they are so frustrated.

If you have any concerns, please contact us with any queries, or alternatively if you are more comfortable, visit your maternal health nurse, GP or paediatrician.

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