Why Hands-and-Knees Crawling Is Important for Development

4 days ago

2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Moving on all fours builds shoulder strength, hand strength, and coordination between both sides of the body. Here is how to encourage classic crawling.

Crawling on hands and knees is a major milestone. Using opposite arms and legs at the same time helps coordinate both sides of the brain, strengthens the shoulders for future fine motor skills, and develops the muscles in the hands.

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Crawling Styles You Might See:

Moving on hands and knees with alternating arm and leg movements.
Pulling the body forward across the floor using the arms while the belly stays on the ground.
Using one foot and one knee, or keeping one leg tucked under while moving.

Ways to Encourage Hands-and-Knees Crawling:

Sit on the floor with your leg stretched out and place your baby belly-down over your thigh so their hands and knees rest on the floor, then gently rock them back and forth.
Place a rolled blanket or sofa cushion on the floor so crawling over low obstacles encourages them to lift their belly off the ground.
Use a soft play tunnel to encourage your baby to stay down on their hands and knees instead of pulling up to stand right away.