Watching your baby achieve milestones like crawling is one of the most exciting moments for any parent! Crawling isn’t just about movement—it’s a key stage in developing strength, coordination, and motor skills. This guide will help you support your baby’s journey with 20 actionable tips designed to encourage their progress in a safe and fun way.
Research from Michigan State University highlights the importance of crawling, noting that it “provides numerous benefits to a child’s brain and future motor skills.” With that in mind, let’s dive into how you can help your little one master this milestone!
1. Understand the Stages of Crawling
Babies go through several stages before crawling, like rocking on their hands and knees or pulling themselves forward with their arms. Recognising these signs helps you provide the right support at each stage.
2. Prioritise Tummy Time
Tummy time is essential for strengthening your baby’s neck, arms, and shoulders—muscles they’ll need for crawling. Make it fun by using bright, engaging toys or lying down beside them to cheer them on.
3. Use Engaging Toys
Place toys just out of your baby’s reach to encourage them to move toward them. Opt for sensory toys with textures, colours, and sounds to keep them motivated.
Example: Hazza Toyz Candy Chateau Pink Dumbbell is perfect for stimulating sensory play while building motor skills.
4. Create a Safe Space
Baby-proof your home to ensure a hazard-free area for exploration. Cover sharp corners, secure furniture, and remove small objects that could pose choking risks. A safe environment gives babies the confidence to explore and practice crawling.
5. Get on the Floor with Them
Join your baby at their level during playtime. Your interaction not only motivates them but also strengthens your bond. Smile, clap, and make eye contact to show your support as they explore.
6. Offer Gentle Support
Place your hands behind their feet or under their tummy to provide a little push as they practice crawling movements. Gradually reduce your help as they gain confidence and strength.
7. Use Positive Reinforcement
Celebrate every small win, from lifting their head to their first crawling step. Cheer them on with claps, smiles, and hugs to boost their confidence and encourage progress.
8. Limit Time in Baby Gear
While swings and bouncers are convenient, too much time in them can restrict movement. Give your baby plenty of floor time to develop strength and coordination naturally.
9. Avoid Overstimulation
Too many toys or distractions can overwhelm your baby. Choose a few engaging items that encourage exploration without causing sensory overload.
10. Add Music and Rhymes
Sing nursery rhymes or play soft music during tummy time to create a fun and interactive atmosphere. Songs with rhythm and melody can help keep your baby engaged and encourage movement.
11. Incorporate Mirror Play
Place a baby-safe mirror in front of them. Babies love looking at their reflections, which can motivate them to lift their heads and move toward the mirror.
12. Offer Different Surfaces
Let your baby crawl on various textures like carpet, hardwood, or grass. These surfaces help improve balance, adaptability, and sensory experiences.
13. Model Crawling Movements
Show your baby how to crawl by getting on your hands and knees. Mimicking your movements can inspire them to try crawling themselves.
14. Provide Breaks
Short, frequent play sessions work better than long ones. Regular breaks prevent frustration and keep your baby happy and motivated.
15. Play Crawling Games
Turn crawling into a game with activities like “follow the leader.” Use bright toys or cushions as obstacles for added fun and challenge.
16. Be Patient
Every baby develops at their own pace. Some may crawl earlier, while others take longer. Stay supportive, and remember that your encouragement helps them feel safe and confident.
17. Celebrate Every Milestone
Whether it’s rocking on their knees or their first crawling step, celebrate every achievement. Positive reinforcement builds self-esteem and strengthens your bond.
18. Explore Outdoor Play
Let your baby crawl on grass or soft outdoor surfaces. This change of scenery provides new sensory experiences and makes crawling practice more exciting.
19. Encourage Sibling Interaction
If they have siblings, let them join in the fun! Babies often mimic older children’s movements, which can inspire them to crawl.
20. Incorporate Rolling Activities
Encourage rolling as a precursor to crawling. Rolling helps develop core strength and coordination, laying the foundation for more advanced movements.
Supporting Your Baby’s Crawling Journey
Helping your baby learn to crawl is a rewarding experience. By creating a safe, engaging environment and encouraging their efforts, you’ll help them build the skills they need for this exciting milestone.
At Hazza Toyz, we design sensory-rich, UK-designed toys to support your baby’s development at every stage. From soft, colourful plush toys to engaging sensory options, our collection is crafted to inspire curiosity, build motor skills, and make playtime safe and fun. Explore our range today and find the perfect toy to help your little one reach their next milestone!
