From army crawling to full mobility — explore the stages of crawling and how to support it.
One of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year is crawling — that moment when they finally figure out how to move forward on their own. But when exactly does that happen? And how can you support your baby’s journey from rolling to crawling and beyond?
In this post, we’ll walk you through:
- The typical timeline of crawling,
- The developmental stages leading up to it,
- What to expect and when,
- Plus simple ways to help your baby learn to crawl naturally.
📅 When Do Babies Start Crawling?
Most babies start crawling between 6 and 10 months of age. But just like walking or talking, every child develops at their own pace. Some babies skip crawling altogether and go straight to pulling up or cruising.
Here’s a general timeline:
| Age | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 3–5 months | Baby pushes up on arms during tummy time |
| 5–7 months | Begins rocking on hands and knees, maybe backward scooting |
| 6–10 months | Army crawling or belly crawling |
| 7–11 months | Classic hands-and-knees crawling (creeping) |
| 9–12 months | Pulls up to stand, begins cruising or walking with support |
🐛 Types of Crawling
Not all crawling looks the same! Here are the most common styles:
1. Army Crawling
Your baby moves forward using elbows and belly — like a little soldier. This often comes before classic crawling.
2. Classic Crawling
Also called “creeping”, this is the hands-and-knees style where babies alternate arms and legs.
3. Bear Crawling
Your baby crawls on hands and feet with knees off the ground — more advanced and requires better strength.
4. Crab Crawling
A sideways crawl where one leg pushes off while the other drags. Totally normal!
5. Bottom Scooting
Some babies move by shuffling on their bums. It’s adorable, and still functional!
👶 Fun fact: Some babies never crawl. They may go straight to pulling up or walking, and that’s okay too — as long as other milestones are on track.
🧠 Why Crawling Matters (Even If It’s Skipped)
Crawling helps your baby:
- Develop cross-body coordination (right arm, left leg, and vice versa),
- Strengthen shoulders, back, core, and hips,
- Build spatial awareness and depth perception,
- Encourage brain development, especially for reading and motor planning later.
Even if your baby doesn’t crawl in the traditional sense, giving them enough floor time and movement practice helps these skills develop in other ways.
🛠️ How to Support Crawling Development
Here are simple but effective ways to help:
1. Tummy Time, Every Day
- Start from birth: a few minutes a day, gradually increasing to 30–60 mins total.
- Helps develop neck, arm, and core strength.
- Make it fun with toys, mirrors, or getting face-to-face with your baby.
2. Use a Play Mat or Open Floor
- Skip baby walkers or jumpers — they limit movement.
- A firm but soft surface encourages exploration.
3. Place Toys Just Out of Reach
- This motivates babies to shift their weight, reach, rock, and eventually crawl.
4. Get On the Floor With Them
- Demonstrate crawling!
- Babies love to mimic you — especially if you cheer them on.
5. Avoid Overuse of Containers
- Limit time in swings, car seats, and bouncers when baby is awake.
- Encourage active play instead.
🚩 When to Talk to a Pediatrician
Every baby develops differently — but you should talk to your pediatrician if:
- Your baby isn’t rolling by 6 months,
- Shows no interest in movement by 9 months,
- Seems to have stiff or floppy muscles,
- Is only using one side of the body consistently.
Early intervention can make a big difference if there’s a delay.
📚 References
- HealthyChildren.org – Baby Milestones: Crawling
- CDC Developmental Milestones – 6 to 12 Months
- Pathways.org – Crawling Development and Variations
💬 Final Thoughts
Crawling is more than a way to get around — it’s a major leap in brain-body coordination. Whether your baby army crawls, scoots, or launches straight into walking, every move brings them closer to independence.
Just keep encouraging floor time, follow your baby’s lead, and celebrate their progress.
If you want a printable milestone tracker or a video guide for baby exercises that support crawling, drop a comment — I’d be happy to share!
