09 Jun How to Encourage Gross Motor Development in the First Year
Your baby grows and changes so much during the first year of life. One of the biggest areas of development during this time is gross motor skills. These are movements that use large muscles, like rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking. Helping your baby build strong gross motor skills is an important part of their overall development.
At Continuum Pediatrics, we love supporting families as babies reach these exciting milestones. Here’s what to expect and how to encourage healthy movement in your child’s first year.
What Are Gross Motor Skills?
Gross motor skills involve the muscles used for big movements. This includes your baby’s neck, back, arms, legs, and core. These skills help your baby control their body and move through the world.
Examples of gross motor milestones include:
- Lifting the head during tummy time
- Rolling over from front to back or back to front
- Sitting up with and then without support
- Crawling and scooting
- Pulling up to stand
- Cruising (walking while holding furniture)
- Taking first steps
Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are ways you can support them along the way.
How to Encourage Gross Motor Skills
#1. Tummy Time
Tummy time is one of the most important things you can do from day one. It helps strengthen your baby’s neck, shoulders, and back. Start with short sessions a few times a day and slowly increase the time as your baby gets stronger.
#2. Create a Safe Space to Move
Give your baby room to stretch, roll, and crawl. A soft blanket on the floor is a great option. Avoid keeping your baby in swings, bouncers, or strollers for long periods when they’re awake.
#3. Let Baby Explore
Place toys just out of reach to encourage scooting and crawling. Use mirrors, bright toys, or textured objects to get your baby interested in moving.
#4. Limit Screen Time
Instead of screen time, spend time playing on the floor. Interacting with you is far more valuable than anything on a screen.
#5. Encourage Sitting and Standing
When your baby is ready, help them sit with support. Later, you can help them pull to stand and cruise along furniture.
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
If your baby seems stiff or floppy, doesn’t reach milestones within the usual timeframe, or has trouble moving one side of their body, schedule a visit with your pediatrician. Early support can make a big difference.
Our team at Continuum Pediatrics is here to answer your questions and support your baby’s development every step of the way. Need a checkup or milestone visit? Schedule an appointment today.