When Do Babies Start Creeping?

Before walking or crawling, most babies start their forward momentum through creeping. Like most developmental milestones, the actual age may be slightly different for each child. The child must master a wide range of movements before creeping occurs, including sitting up and rolling over. Most parents find that after the baby can sit unassisted, creeping is on the horizon.

  1. What is Creeping?

    • Creeping is slightly different from crawling. When the baby crawls, she balances on her hands and knees with her tummy off the floor. Creeping babies are not that coordinated yet. The creeping baby lies on her tummy and pulls herself across the floor. She uses her feet to push against the floor or carpet. As she begins creeping, she may move backwards as often as she moves forward. However, as she practices, she learns to coordinate the right and left sides of her body. For example, she will push with her left foot, and pull with her right arm. Not only does this make her a more efficient creeper, it is a necessary skill for crawling.

    Ages for Creeping

    • Many babies start creeping between 7 and 9 months. The baby must hit several milestones before creeping is possible. The baby should have the core strength and coordination to sit unassisted. In addition, he must be able to push his upper body off the floor when lying on his tummy. Before creeping, many babies will have figured out how to pull their legs under their bodies and push up. All of these activities strengthen the baby̵7;s core muscles, help them learn balance and prepare them for creeping, crawling and walking.

    Do All Babies Creep?

    • Not all babies creep. Babies find their own ways to move and some choose very creative ways to get around. Some babies scoot on their bottom, pushing with their legs and leaving their hands free to grasp toys. Others push with one leg and keep the other tucked under the body for support. Some babies skip creeping and go straight to crawling. Dr. Mary Gavin encourages parents to relax. As long as the baby is using both sides of her body and moving forward by a year, she is right on schedule.

    Keeping Creeping Babies Safe

    • As the baby becomes more mobile, it is time to get serious about baby proofing the home. As he starts to move around the floor, he will explore anything he finds. This may include electrical cords or outlets, cords for curtains or blinds and small objects, such as coins, which may become choking hazards. Create a safe place for baby to play and explore by removing these hazards. Cover electrical outlets. Place foam bumpers on the sharp edges of furniture. Most of all, keep a sharp eye on your kiddo and play with him as he enters this wonderful new phase of life.

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