Crawling is an exciting milestone, but what if your baby is taking longer than expected to start moving? As parents, it’s natural to worry, but every baby develops at their own pace. In this guide, we’ll explore why some babies delay crawling, what you can do to help, and when it’s time to consult a doctor.

When Do Babies Typically Start Crawling?

Most babies start crawling between 6 to 10 months, but some may take longer. Others may even skip crawling altogether and go straight to standing or walking. So, if your baby isn’t crawling yet—don’t panic just yet!

Possible Reasons Why Your Baby Isn’t Crawling Yet

🛑 1. Natural Variations in Development

Every baby is different. Some are early movers, while others take their time. If your baby is hitting other milestones, a slight delay in crawling may not be a concern.

👶 2. Lack of Tummy Time

Babies need tummy time to strengthen their core, neck, and arm muscles. If they’ve spent more time lying on their back, they may take longer to develop the strength needed for crawling.

🪑 3. Too Much Time in Baby Gear

Frequent use of bouncers, walkers, or activity seats can limit floor time, preventing your baby from practicing movements that lead to crawling.

🧬 4. Different Movement Patterns

Some babies adopt alternative movement styles, like scooting on their bottom, rolling, or commando crawling (dragging themselves forward with their arms).

🦵 5. Low Muscle Tone or Strength Issues

If your baby has low muscle tone (hypotonia), they may struggle with weight-bearing movements. Conditions like prematurity or developmental delays can also contribute.

🧠 6. Underlying Medical Conditions

In rare cases, conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders may affect a baby’s ability to crawl. However, these are usually accompanied by other noticeable delays.

How to Encourage Your Baby to Crawl

✅ 1. Increase Tummy Time

Encourage at least 20–30 minutes of tummy time daily. Place toys just out of reach to motivate movement.

✅ 2. Reduce Time in Baby Gear

Limit time in walkers, bouncers, and jumpers, so your baby has more opportunities to move freely on the floor.

✅ 3. Use Engaging Toys

Try crawling tunnels, soft play mats, or toys that make sounds to attract your baby’s attention and encourage movement.

✅ 4. Get Down on the Floor with Them

Babies love to mimic! Crawl alongside your baby to show them how it’s done.

✅ 5. Encourage Reaching & Weight-Bearing

Place interesting objects just beyond their reach, motivating them to shift their weight and move forward.

✅ 6. Try a Gentle Baby Massage & Exercises

Massaging your baby’s legs and practicing simple stretches can improve flexibility and muscle tone.

When Should You Worry?

While some babies take longer, you should consult a doctor if your baby:

🔹 Isn’t showing interest in movement by 12 months
🔹 Has stiff or floppy muscles
🔹 Isn’t bearing weight on their legs when supported
🔹 Shows no effort to reach, roll, or push up during tummy time
🔹 Is missing multiple developmental milestones

Your pediatrician may recommend physical therapy or developmental screenings if necessary.

Final Thoughts

A delay in crawling doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Some babies skip crawling altogether and go straight to walking! However, if you have concerns, always trust your instincts and seek professional guidance.

🍼 Parenting Tip: Celebrate progress, not perfection! Your baby will get there at their own pace. 💕

Is your little one taking their time to crawl?

Every baby develops at their own pace, but if you have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance! 💡

Share your experiences in the comments below or book a consultation with Dr. Abhishek Pasari to get personalized parenting support. 👶💙

Visit www.myshishu.in to learn more!