WATCH MY BABY MOVE · GETTING AROUND
Baby Crawling: Different Ways to Get Moving
Crawling is not one single movement and it is not a compulsory stop on the way to walking. Babies may move on hands and knees, travel on their tummy, bottom shuffle, roll or combine several approaches as they explore getting around.
What you’re seeing
Hands-and-knees crawling is only one possibility. You may see belly or commando crawling, bottom shuffling, backwards movement or an individual mixture.
Why babies do this
Moving across the floor lets baby reach people, toys and places that interest them. Their route reflects their own balance, strength, opportunity and preferences; it is not a score of how well they are developing.
What you might notice around this stage
Some babies first pivot, rock on all fours or move between sitting and kneeling. Others find a different route. Pulling to stand may appear before, during or without conventional crawling.
Simple ways to encourage movement
Offer safe floor space, get down at baby’s level and place an interesting object within a manageable distance. Let baby work out how to move rather than repeatedly placing them into a position they cannot reach themselves.
- Choose a firm, clear floor area
- Move cords, small objects and unstable furniture
- Use encouragement without pressure
- Avoid promising that an activity will make baby crawl
When to ask for advice
NHS guidance suggests speaking to your health visitor if your baby is not showing signs of moving independently by around 12 months. Ask sooner if movement seems very one-sided, your baby appears unusually stiff or floppy, or they lose a skill.