Babies are excitable little humans, they’re learning, growing and reaching all sorts of new milestones! And as parents, you like to document everything because you want to remember these memories for years to come. Whether you create a memory book of all their firsts, or via photos and videos. Parents may also be waiting for certain milestones, like wondering when do babies start rolling over?
Well, we’ve got all the info you need here. So, check it out!
A Baby’s Early Journey
Babies go through all sorts of developmental milestones at such a rapid pace. From lifting up their head to grabbing your pinky, from giggling to their first word. All of it is so exciting and I’m sure you want everything to happen soon as, but these things take time. And most of all, every baby is different. So, they won’t all necessarily reach the same milestones as others!
And all these milestones are part of the baby’s physical or motor development.
Let's start with a baby's early development
Typically, babies tend to lift their heads up without support when they’re around 4 months old if they have enough upper body strength. They can even start pushing themselves up with their arms while on their stomach, during tummy time. But it’s different for every baby because they’re all unique!
Did you know that tummy time is a really important activity that can benefit babies in all sorts of ways? It helps improve and strengthen their upper body and neck muscles. Which in turn helps lift their head, gain head control and move their body!
When you notice your baby start to lift themselves up and want to sit, encourage them by placing supportive measures like pillows behind or around them. By doing this, you’re reinforcing the movement to sit up and they’re able to look around! Even say hi to mom and dad!
But what comes next? I hear you say. Many things can come next!
Like at 9 months, babies tend to sit without little or much support and can move themselves into the sitting position (but may need a little help with this). And after more physical and muscle development, by 12 months they’ll be able to move into the sitting position without no help! Soon after, they’ll be rolling, crawling and being cheeky little babies, so you better watch out!
When do babies start rolling over?
Well, typically, babies can start attempting to roll over by 5 months! They tend to start rocking on their tummy from side to side, which is a huge indicator. To encourage them to fully roll on their back or stomach, try placing your baby on a blanket on the floor and place a couple of toys around them. This is to see whether the baby tries to reach out for them and if they roll over to grab them. It’s encouraging and also develops all kinds of motor skills, which is key for a baby’s physical development!
Generally, most babies will roll from their tummy onto their back first, is there a reason why? We haven’t quite figured that out yet… But it’s certainly encouraging, and the more support you give them, the sooner they’ll reach their next baby milestone of rolling both ways! Tummy to back and back to tummy. This can happen anytime between 6 – 8 months. But remember, it can differ from child to child, so try not to worry if your baby hasn’t done this yet!
Also, a rolling baby needs constant supervision, so they don’t end up rolling into something they shouldn’t, or getting themselves into danger! So, make sure they’re in a baby safe position and place where they can either roam around, or you can see them live their happy lives developing all sorts of muscle strength skills.
How can I help my baby roll over?
If you’re at a stage where you’re encouraging your baby to roll over but not quite sure if you need to be doing something specific… We’ve got your back.
From searching lots of info on the internet, these are the top tips in making tummy time into a playful but encouraging activity:
- Place an activity mat or a blanket on the floor that they can play on. Make sure there’s enough space for them to move around.
- Tummy time should be a frequent activity you carry out.
- Lay out enticing objects around them like baby toys, so they’ll become eager to reach out and move around.
- The most important rule is never to leave your baby unattended. Always be around them and keep a watchful eye on them.
What if my baby hasn’t rolled over yet?
Don’t fret! As mentioned before, reaching milestones differs from baby to baby, and there shouldn’t be anything to worry about. But if you are worried and have a few questions, it’s best to ask your health visitor or even your GP.
All facts and figures have come from reliable sources like the NHS website or even trusted family websites like Pampers.
Learning about babies, how they move, and when they reach certain milestones is really interesting! And the more you know, the more you’ll be able to help them. So, we hope this blog was informative and will help with understanding your baby more.
Looking for more info on babies? How about when to start baby-led weaning, browsing some teething bracelets to help with those pesky teeth or some lunch ideas for your growing toddlers!