When Should My Baby Start Developing Motor Skills?
When I inform expectant parents that they can start tummy time day one they are often surprised by the idea of introducing developmental play so early. However, parents who understand the typical timeline for motor skill development tend to feel more equipped to support their child's growth and identify any potential concerns early on. While each baby is unique and may develop at their own pace, there are general milestones that most infants reach within certain age ranges.
From birth to three months, a baby is just beginning to experience the world in their own little bodies. During this period, newborns exhibit reflexive movements that often lay the groundwork for motor patterns and future milestones. For example, we can expect to see the stepping reflex until about 3 months. The development of head control also begins early as their necks become stronger and better able to lift and turn in various positions. Tummy time is one position that allows babies to strengthen their neck and upper body muscles. By the end of the first month, babies should spend short periods on their tummies while awake. As there strength improves, they will start turning their heads from side to side. This is a great opportunity to make sure their neck has enough mobility to turn equally between both sides. This lays the foundation for babies to begin to roll from their tummy to their back from 4-6 months. As their trunk muscles become stronger, they can start sitting with support and eventually by about 7 months they are able to sit independently. This new vantage point gives them the chance to reach for and grasp objects, which helps develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
As their motor skills progress between six to nine months, babies become more mobile and building coordination. They typically begin crawling on their bellies before developing enough strength to push up onto hands and knees. The hip and core strength that develops in this position is essentially for standing transitions and walking, which requires a stable lumbopelvic complex. This is also a great opportunity to see if there are any differences between the two sides of their bodies. For example, as babies start to pull themselves up to a standing position, you can generally notice if they have a favorite side.
As babies approach their first birthday, they continue to refine their motor skills through cruising, or taking side steps while holding on for support. As they feel more confident and steady, they may release support and start to take steps on their own. This can occur between 10 and 18 months, however parents usually start reaching out for help with walking if their little one has not started on their own by around 15 months.
As a parent, you can support your baby's motor development by providing a stimulating environment, encouraging play in a variety of positions including tummy time, on their back, and on their sides, and give your baby plenty of opportunities to move and explore. Motor skills build on each other, so it's important to celebrate each milestone. If you notice your little one is having a challenging time achieving a skill, it’s important to investigate why that may be. Early intervention can make a significant difference in addressing any developmental delays and supporting your baby's growth.
