Introduction
There are various stages in baby growth. One of the important stages in growth is crawling. There are various methods of crawling that babies learn while growing. Children start with a progression of various or might stick with only one way. Every child grows uniquely. Crawling depends on the maturation of the muscles, skeletal and nervous systems. Various stages are associated with the crawling of a child-like rolling, sitting up, lifting, etc. Crawling is one of the very important stages in the child's growth as it gives a child the feeling of independent mobility.
When Do Babies Start Crawling?
Children start crawling between six to nine months. However, few children do not crawl, and straightaway develop the walking step. Crawling is initiated after propping up to the arm, lifting, and push-ups. First, the child learns to lift with both arms and knees after there is forward and backward motion, along with the realization that he can move on his crawl.
What Is Tummy Time?
Tummy time is giving time to babies to spend time on their bellies. This is very important because this helps the development of muscles. It is very important for the leg, neck, arm, and back muscles as it is involved in crawling. Tummy time should be given in the baby's room as it gives personal space to the child. It allows the baby to initiate crawling. The baby starts kicking his feet on his tummy, allowing the baby to move forward. It helps strengthen hips and legs. Parents or family members should always supervise tummy time. Babies should always be placed on their backs for sleep.
What Are the Types of Baby Crawls?
There are various types of baby crawls.
They are:
Hand and Knees or Cross Crawl - In this type of crawl, babies bear their weight on the knees and both hands. The child moves with one arm and the opposite knee forward.
Bear Crawl - In this type of crawl, babies keep their elbows and knees straight, walking on hands and feet like bears.
Commando Crawl - It is also known as a military-style crawl. They move their bodies forward in this type of crawl while dragging their bellies against the floor.
Bottom Scooter Crawl - In this type of crawl, the baby sits on its bottom and uses its arm to move in a forward direction.
Rolling Crawl - In this type of crawling, the baby moves by rolling from one place to another.
Scoot Crawling - In this type of crawling, the baby drags the bottom part of the body by dragging across the floor. Babies use their legs to move in a forward direction.
Backward Crawl - This type of baby moves in a backward direction while crawling.
Tripod Crawl - In this type of crawl, two hands and one knee. The second leg is in the rest position.
Leaf Frog Crawl - In this type of crawl, babies get their hands and knees into the bridge and move in the forward direction by thrusting.
How Can Parents Teach Their Baby to Crawl?
Parents play a very important role in learning a child's movements, including crawling. The parents' love and support help the child learn fast. There are various ways by which parents can teach their children to crawl.
Giving Tummy Time to a Child - Parents should ensure that the child gets enough tummy time. There should be proper supervision of the parents. Tummy time helps in the proper stretching and strengthening of arms, neck, and leg muscles leading to the initiation of crawling. It should be done strictly when the child is awake. The time range should be between ten to fifteen minutes when the child is three months old and increased to twenty minutes if the child is six months old.
Popping Up the Baby - Popping up the baby makes the baby sit. Parents should assist the child in sitting as it helps develop the strength of the abdominal and back muscles. When babies learn to sit, they lean over from sitting and learn to prop up their bodies on their hands and arms. After this, they move back and forth, holding themselves in a plank position.
Belly Bait - It is a game that helps babies in crawling. Baby toys are kept a little away from baby reach. This helps to move the hand and legs of the baby with extra effort. The parent should keep the baby sitting and the toy in front of the child. Parents should encourage the child to play with their hands elevated, which results in muscular growth.
How Should Parents Maintain the Safety of Their Child During Crawling?
As the baby starts crawling, there is a high chance of falling off and getting injured. Parents should take the following precaution to keep their babies safe.
Covering Knees - Knees should be covered with stretchable pants to avoid painful scratches and rug burns.
Comfortable Place - The place where babies spend their time playing and crawling should be safe and comfortable. It should be free from any hazardous things, and a close watch should be kept on the child while playing.
Not to Climb Chairs - Parents should teach their children not to jump from furniture by gently removing every piece of furniture the child tries to climb. Always try to make sure that heavy furniture should be anchored to the wall.
What Should Parents Do if Their Child Is Not Crawling?
Parents should not get anxious but should be more patient and careful while observing the child's growth. It is not necessary that if the child starts crawling earlier may start walking early. It is dependent on muscular growth, development, and nutrition. Parents should observe motor skills development, language, and social interaction if the child is not crawling even after six months. Parents should seek a pediatric visit if the child cannot move on both sides of their body equally.
Conclusion
Babies grow daily, and they feel motivated and encouraged in the presence and support of their families. Parents' love and care give the child a sense of power and accomplishment. It acts as a huge boost to the self-esteem and confidence of the child and leads the child to the path of walking, climbing, and running.
