When will my baby start crawling?

Babies often start crawling between 7-12 months of age. As your baby develops strength in their arms and legs, you may notice them rocking on their hands and knees. They’ll be on the move soon to explore everything around, so it’s time to make your home baby-proof!  

Getting down on your hands and knees will help you see your home from baby’s perspective and identity hidden hazards. A little extra time spent on baby’s level to play builds connection and can be fun for you too! This lets baby know you’re interested in what they’re doing.  

As you navigate this milestone together, here are some everyday ways to talk, read, sing and play with your baby. 
 
Talk: take a blanket outside and activate your baby’s senses. Talk about what you see, hear, smell and feel. Outdoor play can break up the day and help your little one learn about the world around them. 

Read: books are toys too and there are many ways to share stories. Reading and storytelling with your baby strengthens your connection and helps build their brain.  

Sing: singing songs with actions helps your baby understand what the words mean. Sing Row, Row, Row Your Boat together and rock back and forth to explore rhythm and movement. 

Play: encourage baby to move by placing their favourite toys just out of reach so they can practise reaching, sliding or shuffling towards them. Play is how your baby learns while building both large and small muscles. 

For more tips to match your baby’s age and stage, sign up to our free eNews and go into the draw to win all 12 stories for little Queenslanders  
 
At First 5 Forever, we’re all about connection. Here are some helpful links to connect you to expert voice and resources to support your family through the early years: 

Raising Children Network  

Play Matters 

Triple P – Positive Parenting Program 

Family and Child Connect 

Pregnancy Birth and Baby