How to Help an Infant Crawl

Most babies start crawling between the ages of 8 to 10 months, although many start before or after that age. Once infants can sit without support, they will start to get on their hands and knees and learn to crawl. Babies do not need help to learn to crawl, all infants will accomplish this milestone when they are ready, but many parents like to encourage their infants to learn faster. There are a variety of ways you can try to teach your baby how to crawl.

Things You'll Need

  • Floor mat
  • Toys
  • Towel
  • Boxes
  • Pillows
  • Sofa cushions

Instructions

    • 1

      Place your baby on his stomach for a few minutes several times a day. Place a rolled towel underneath your infant if he cannot support his head yet. Lay on the floor in front of your baby and talk to him. Being on his stomach will help him develop the muscles he needs to crawl. Turn your baby over once he gets frustrated, or he could create a negative association to being on the floor.

    • 2

      Show your baby how to rock on her hands and knees. Place your infant on her stomach and support her by placing your hand under her chest. Accommodate your baby's legs and knees touching the floor with your other hand. Gently rock her back and forth. This is the first step to crawling for many babies.

    • 3

      Place toys just beyond the reach of your baby to help him want to move. Encourage him to try to reach for the toy. Once your infant reaches the toy, place another toy a little farther away and encourage him to reach it also. Keep playing this game until your child is tired.

    • 4

      Place pillows, boxes and sofa cushions on the floor to create an obstacle maze for your baby. Encourage her to try to move around it by placing toys in different places. This activity can help your baby gain strength and agility.

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