Introduction
If you’ve ever found yourself googling ‘When should my baby start crawling?’ at 2am (with one eye open), you’re not alone. Development of motor skills in children can feel like a bit of a mystery, especially when you’re surrounded by stories of babies walking at nine months, or toddlers bottom-shuffling at two years. The truth is, there’s a wide range of what’s typical and even more ways to support your child along the way.
As paediatric physiotherapists, we’re lucky enough to be part of this journey for many families. From the first wiggle to the confident (and often cheeky) sprint down the hallway, we help children find their own way forward, literally!
Movement Milestones (and Why They Vary)
Babies and toddlers go through all sorts of stages on the road to walking, including rolling, sitting, crawling, pulling to stand, cruising, and finally taking those first steps. Some skip crawling entirely (yes, it’s allowed!), others take their time, and some seem to go from rolling to running overnight.
Here’s the usual order of things:
– Rolling (usually around 4–6 months).
– Sitting (6–9 months).
– Crawling or bottom-shuffling (8–10 months).
– Pulling to stand (9–12 months).
– Cruising (walking while holding onto furniture 8-12 months).
– Independent walking (12–18 months).
But (and it’s a big but) these are guidelines, not deadlines. Every child has their own timeline, and that’s okay.
Why Milestones Differ
Development is influenced by many factors, including muscle strength, coordination, personality, and even a child’s interests. Some babies are explorers, always on the move, while others are observers, happy to sit and watch before they try something new. Premature birth, minor health concerns, or simply spending less time on the floor can all play a role in when and how these milestones appear.
It’s Not Just About Age
Reaching a milestone isn’t just about hitting a date, it’s about building the skills that lead to the next step. For example:
· Rolling strengthens the trunk and teaches shifting weight.
· Sitting develops balance and core stability.
· Crawling (or bottom-shuffling) boosts coordination between arms and legs, which also supports brain development.
· Cruising fine-tunes balance and prepares for independent steps.
Even if a child skips a stage (like crawling), they often pick up the same skills in other ways.
When to Consider Physiotherapy
Sometimes, you might notice your child finds things a little trickier than expected. Maybe they’re not bearing weight through their legs, maybe they’re not sitting steadily, or maybe they’re super mobile but move in a way that looks unusual.
That’s where we come in. Physiotherapy isn’t just for children with a diagnosis, it’s for any child who needs a little extra support to move more easily, confidently, or comfortably.
We can help with things like:
– Building strength in babies who aren’t yet rolling or pushing up.
– Helping little ones develop the balance and coordination needed for standing and walking.
– Supporting children who move in asymmetrical ways (think leaning to one side or favouring one leg or early hand dominance).
– Offering play-based ideas to encourage movement through daily routines.
We often hear, ‘I wish I’d come sooner!’, and honestly, if you’re wondering whether physio could help just give us a call. We promise we’re a friendly bunch and are always open and honest about whether you should be concerned or not.
How We Support Each Stage
Our therapy sessions are based on what your child needs and enjoys. That might be tummy time adventures, obstacle courses made out of cushions, or practicing transitions like sitting to standing (we call them mini squats, they call them hard work!).
We work on:
– Encouraging weight-bearing and movement variety.
– Promoting symmetry and core strength.
– Supporting transitions like rolling to sitting, sitting to stand, and standing to walking.
– Teaching parents how to adapt toys and positions to promote progress.
– Celebrating every little win, because they all add up.
A Reassuring Word for Parents
It’s completely normal to compare your child to others, but it’s important to remember that development isn’t a race. Your child’s journey is theirs alone, and they’ll reach those milestones in their own time.
It can be useful to ask your own parents what you were like as a child and when you started to walk, crawl or sit, as there can be patterns in families, particularly with babies who bottom shuffle or are late to walk.
And if they do need a bit of support along the way? That’s what we’re here for. We’ll guide you with practical advice, playful activities, and a good dose of encouragement (plus the occasional sticker or two).
Movement is more than just getting from A to B, it’s about confidence, curiosity, and exploring the world. And we’re here to support every roll, crawl, cruise, and step along the way.
Written by Emma Bird, Children’s Physiotherapy Clinical Lead