Need tips about crawling PLEASE!

Nicole - posted on 08/18/2009

Just let her do it on her own. My little girl was the same way. She was over a year before she started crawling and about 15 or 16 months when she started to walk. They all have different times that they decide that they are going to get up and go.

Nelita - posted on 08/17/2009

Tummy time is very important - you have to put her on her tummy as much as possible.

Sheila - posted on 08/15/2009

dont stress out too much... some children totally skip the crawling part or she may find other ways of moving around like pushing her bum around... or she may crawl a bit later.. the development milestones are just guidelines so dnt worry too much ; )

Heidi - posted on 08/14/2009

Hi there, I too was very worried when my little girl just refused to even lay on her belly without screaming.... i think she probably rolled about 5 times in her little life but screamed straight away... i tried all sorts (like yourself) to get her to crawl but with no success... she was at her happiest if i put her in her walker.... as it turned out she started walking at 10months and crawled at 11months only because she realised if she feel over she had to get to something to help herself up.....and now she sleeps on her belly when once upon a time she would scream the house down....

the thing to remember as many people will tell you "every child is different"....

Best of luck!... :)

Charkeitha - posted on 08/14/2009

Some kids do not crawl at all, before walking. they just go right on to walking. My son started Walking on the very first day of his 8th month. So just wait...you may be surprised.;-0

Danielle - posted on 08/14/2009

Thank you everyone for all your comments! I read through them alot when I get a little frustrated when she doesn't crawl or doesn't attempt to try. You guys sure do help me cheer up



Thanks to all!

Susan - posted on 08/14/2009

Hey, I have 6 boys and they all have crawled at very different ages. One never crawled he went straight to walking at 10 months. He's sixteen now and perfectly normal contrary to what everyone told me at the time! It can be very hard but try not to compare yours to others or listen to others opinions of what they think your baby should be doing. Just squeeze that baby while you can because once she gets going it will be hard to catch a her!

Bonnie - posted on 08/14/2009

Don't worry about her crawling or her not liking to be on her belly. My now 19 month old absolutely hated "tummy time" so we found other ways for his to strengthen his neck. She will learn how to do everything she is supposed to do on her own time....stop driving yourself crazy! Also, if you have a group you can join so that she is around other kids her age that will really help her to see other kids her age doing these movements.

Janessa - posted on 08/14/2009

Don't worry about it! Every baby is different, and will do what they want- when they want! You'll be surprised the day she decides to play on her tummy! My third child didn't crawl until she was around 91/2 months- and it was her decision, b/c she too, hated being on her tummy! Have fun with baby! Don't force anything! hope that helps!

Kim - posted on 08/14/2009

My oldest daughter never crawled. Not all kids do. Around 9 months she pulled herself up to standing by the sofa and never looked back. My youngest never really crawled either. He was kind of an odd ball. He "walked" on his knees. Weirdest thing I ever saw, he was pretty quick too. No worries, all kids are different and do things in their own way. I don't think they have read the same baby books as us ;).

Vanessa - posted on 08/14/2009

My 6mo old is the same way as was my 8 year old. He was pulling himself up with the use of the furnature at 5 months and walking by 10 mo. it really is up to them my daughter seems content with the way things are, so i guess just be content with what she IS doing, cause it really does go by so faast.

Jodie - posted on 08/14/2009

My daughter is also 8 months old and does not crawl, and I'm OK with that, because she is very bright and very responsive to the world around her, and I have tons of fun watching her explore her world in her own way. And although it's true that crawling is developmentally important, there is nothing you can do to force the issue, and trying to do so will only frustrate you and your child, which will cause her to be even less interested in being on her belly and you to be more upset. Give her plenty of time to play in many different positions, including on her belly, and have fun just watching her explore her world in her own way. This period of time goes by so fast, and it would be a shame to waste it on pointless worry. Just enjoy your beautiful, wonderful, incredibly unique daughter and have fun getting to know who she is!

Allison - posted on 08/13/2009

My oldest son crawled at 10 months then at 10 1/2 got up and walked. My younger son walked around 9 1/2 and walked at 11 months. Both did fine with all other skills.

Marella - posted on 08/12/2009

Teresa Bock (August 7, 9:21 pm) has it right! Crawling is a very important developmental stage. Reread Teresa's post. I have 6 children and 11 grandchildren. Most of my children and grandchildren crawled at the late end of normal--8, 9 and 10 months. One grandchild skipped crawling, walked at 13 months, and then decided to crawl.



I have a friend whose fourteen-year-old son had had learning difficulty for years. He had skipped crawling as a baby. A neuro-developmentalist showed his mother how to guide him in crawling exercises and other skills and this young man's ability to learn was transformed. He spent a few minutes twice a day crawling and had to do this for four months. By doing so, his brain formed neurological pathways that had not been properly developed by crawling when he was a baby.



I say all this to comment on the fact that many babies are discouraged from crawling because they spend a lot on time on their backs, in infant seats and jumpers, and generally kept off their stomachs. For the past ten years or so, doctors have been telling mothers to put their babies on their backs from birth. They have their reasons, but, honestly, it isn't logical. Babies sleep better on their tummies and develop better physically. As Teresa and other wise mothers on this thread have pointed out, encourage your babies to spend time on their tummies. They will get used to it and start to enjoy it eventually. Start with very short times and gradually increase the time. They will also develop their tactile senses by touching and feeling surfaces with their hands, feet, and body and strengthen their core muscles for crawling by pushing up, rolling to the side, and just floundering around. The army crawl usually precedes the regular crawl and can be encouraged by placing interesting toys and other safe objects just out of baby's reach.



I'd like to say just one more thing about the tendency of a first-time mother to compare the development of her baby to other babies. Though this is a natural tendency, resist the temptation to compare. There are many factors contributing to the differences in babies, including personality, gender, experiences, and, yes, even intelligence. Accept your baby as he or she is, but do be on the lookout for abnormalities. A good pediatrician is an invaluable source as to what's normal. Don't hesitate to call your doctor, an experienced mother, or to read a good children's health guide.



When you have your second child, you will find yourself amazed at the differences between your first and second child and won't be so tempted to focus on others' babies. :)

Sue - posted on 08/12/2009

Babies will do what babies will do. It is not terribly uncommon for an 8 month old baby not to crawl so don't worry about it. My daughter did not every really crawl. She rolled, she scooted, she pulled herself up on things and walked, but did not like to crawl. She hated being on her knees. When she crawled she was on her hands and feet. Do you have a walker? Maybe she just wants to be upright to move around. Don't hesitate to talk to your pediatrician if you are really concerned. I say just play with her, love her and encourage her to do what she is willing to do at this point. They grow up so very fast. Good luck!

Karen - posted on 08/12/2009

My oldest daughter who will be 25 years this year never crawled when she was a baby. She walked at 12 months and began crawling around the same time. I tried everything to entice her but it didn't help. Be patient and one day you will be surprised:)

Jessica - posted on 08/12/2009

she will do it whenever she is ready.....babies develop differently......have you tried to crawl on the floor in front of her? my daughter is 9 1/2 months old now and I crawl chasing her and she loves it!

Cena - posted on 08/12/2009

Hon, you just can't tell. She will probably crawl when she is ready, and if you think she is seriously delayed, see your doctor. But just putting stuff that she wants out of reach will encourage her to get moving, and don't worry about it too much just yet.

Christine - posted on 08/12/2009

my son was walking round holding onto things and pushing his toy trolly before he could crawl but i fostered a year old that could not crawl and what i did was put a toy that they like just out of reach and after a few days he was moving forward, but all children are not the same as my son could walk with out aid at 1 as his freind who was 8 weeks older could only just crawl. all children catch up with each other so dont worry, you may find that she walk walk instead of crawling

Anna - posted on 08/12/2009

My son never crawled. He would scoot on his bottom and that's how he got around until he started walking. So I agree with others that say, not all babies will crawl. So don't be so worried about it.

Tiffany - posted on 08/11/2009

My daughter started the 'army crawl' about 6 months, but didnt really get on her hands and knees til a few days before 8 months. Basically, she hated to be on her belly UNTIL she learned to roll over. Once she figured that out, she wouldnt be on her back! cuz then she had control over it, right?! Does your daughter roll over? Thats the best way (from personal exerience) for them to learn to crawl - not from sitting. She's over 10 months now and still doesnt really crawl from sitting (althouhg she can go back and forth - sit, crawl, sit...)

Try putting her on her back and waiting for her to roll over, and then encourage her to come to you, or push her little legs under her belly so she gets the leg idea.

Kimberly - posted on 08/10/2009

Every child develops at a different rate. My oldest was crawling by 7mos and walking by 11mos. My youngest didn't crawl until 11mos and didn't walk until 15mos. This didnt mean she was delayed. Ask your pediatrician about age developement guidelines. If I remember correctly you shouldnt worry unless she isn't crawling by 1yr. Don't be too concerned yet. Try to be patient and encouaging with her.

Tracy - posted on 08/10/2009

My son didn't crawl until he was 11 months old. He was the same way...very smart and able to figure out all his toys and keep up with all the older kids. He loved to walk with me and explore, but absolutely hated being on his tummy. He started walking shortly after he turned 10 months and crawled after he learned to walk. He did not move in any way until he walked which really bothered me, so I know how you feel. One thought I had was that he never saw anybody crawl so he didn't know to do it, so I started crawling around. He found it quite amusing and eventually began to crawl after me. I know it's frustrating, but some kids decide just to walk and crawl later. Hang in there, she will be off in no time!

Julie - posted on 08/09/2009

I have 9 children so I hope that gives me a little insight on this. I have an older brother that is now nearly 50, and I have a son that is now 15, and neither one of them crawled when they were small. While it is true that all children do this at their own time, it is NOT true that it is not important. It is a step in the developmental process and in some children...not all...but in some children it will cause them to have learning difficulties. My brother's doctor had the insight way back when to see this and have him play games that involved crawling. One of the things my son has difficulty with is pronouncing words. He leaves sounds out of his words. That is a sign that he missed a step somewhere...just my opinion, but also a lot of research into this as I tried to find ways to help my son. There are websites devoted to things like this, and understanding what can help these kids.

Colleen - posted on 08/08/2009

My oldest was the only one that "crawled", the next one did a belly flop thingy, and the last one stood up and walked at 6 months, talk about a nightmare. Just give them plenty of opportunity to find their own way, lots of time on the ground and lots of toys that move when they hit them. They may get frustrated, but don't we all, and it's a good time to learn to deal with that while they are young.

Shirley - posted on 08/08/2009

my son never crawled, he had acid reflux and didn't like being on his tummy, he however started running at eight months. My daughter crawled and didn't start walking until she was thirteen months. They are grown now. My nephew is almost eight months old and he has acid reflux and he won't attempt to be on his stomach either. Does your daughter have any signs of acid reflux, if so her fummy probablly hurts. Hope this helps.

Alicia - posted on 08/08/2009

Sometimes when kids are really smart if you push them to much they resist. My son is also very smart and I learned about that age, he wants to figure it out on his own. If you let her be and tell her she can do it, she will do it in her own time. Second, some kids just don't crawl. You said that she is walking while holding your hand, just wait a month or two and she may be walking on her own. Also like some of the other moms said, enjoy this time because when she does start walking or crawling it will be crazy.

Yolanda - posted on 08/07/2009

My daughter use to slide around the floor and I thought she'd never crawl. At 9 months she just up and got the hand - foot coordination and has been crawling EVERYWHERE since. I say enjoy the less mobile stage because once they start, they never stop. :)

Nina - posted on 08/07/2009

my first son was 7 months when he started crawling, but my second son is now 10months old, and doesnt really want to crawl! he loves to stand up and walk around holding my hands. i wouldnt worry about your daughter, she will crawl when she is ready, she may even walk first and then learn to crawl!

Sarah - posted on 08/07/2009

I am pregnant with #4 and I learned really fast not to even look and compare. I know it's hard. It's easier for me now. My oldest was and still is considered gifted, she walked talked and did everything early. Then along came Kai, he was delayed and was later diagnosed with autism. Now my youngest Hunter, he is some where in the middle. Im letting you know this because they are ALL different and no matter how much we want to be able to control that, we can't (believe me I have tried). Comparing them will only make ya feel bad;)

Krista - posted on 08/07/2009

The move and crawl ball. Google it. It's freaking fantastic because it captures a child's interest in being on their tummy and then eventually crawling.

Christine - posted on 08/07/2009

Every baby is different. I've heard stories from friends about babies who skipped crwaling and went from just sitting to walking in 0-90 sec. Worrying is normal. My girlfriends son is technically 6 months older but he was a preemie and still was doing stuff before my son. He's now 3 and doing fine. She'll do what she wants in her own good time.

Teresa - posted on 08/07/2009

Crawling is VERY important developmentally. Babies who have missed this stage and go straight to walking will often have problems later on as a child with reading and writing skills, coordination and balance. The cross lateral movement is crucial for brain development and for skills used later on in childhood. I have 2 daughters now 10 and 7 years old, both crawled and walked later than any books suggested. I would continue to encourage her and have her spend as much time as she can on her tummy to foster good core strength and neck muscles. . Check out www.BrainGym.org for more info or look online for info about Infant Reflex Integration.

SHELLI - posted on 08/07/2009

LET HER TAKE HER TIME WITH THE CRAWLING MORE THEN LIKELY SHE MAY BE AHEAD OF THE OTHERS HER AGE IN OTHER AREAS SO JUST BE PATIENT . NO NEED TO RUSH ANYTHING SHE WILL RUSH IN HER OWN TIME . THEN YOU WILL TRY TO DEVISE A PLAN TO SLOW HER DOWN( TEEN YRS ) . LOL LET HER GO AT HER OWN PACE, IT PAYS OFF

Hollie - posted on 08/07/2009

Please don't get frustrated, you are not alone. My son is also 8 months old and has not crawled. Just know that your daughter will do it on her own time and count you blessings because this just gives you a little more time before you have to chase her all over the house. A little boy in my sons daycare is crawling and our daycare lady says she spends most of the time chasing him.

Amy - posted on 08/07/2009

All babies grow and develop at their own pace. I find there are way too many books and things saying "your baby should be doing this age"...when really, we are all different. I'm sure your baby girl is going to be crawling soon and she may even just go straight into walking. I have heard from alot of moms that their babies skipped crawling altogether. Just be patient and keep doing what your doing... tummy time, for as long as she can handle it, encourage her and I'm sure she'll be moving in no time! Maybe she just likes mama holding her too much! lol..

Good luck!

Tina A - posted on 08/07/2009

Please don't worry my two children never ever crawled before they walked. Now they are never off their knees, I can tell by the laundry, put your energy into something else and stop worrying.

Molly - posted on 08/07/2009

Truthfully, I wish there was a way to help, but they just have to be ready. When my daughter was 9 months old, she use to rock on her hands and knees, back and forth. Eventually she figured it out. She's now 5 yrs. I also have twin 17 mon. olds. My Daughter (twin) was crawling at 9 mons, and my son (twin) never crawled except an army crawl. (Just used his arms.) He skipped crawling and walked at ten months!! Just goes to show- every kiddo is different!

Charity - posted on 08/07/2009

my son is almost 9 months old and has just begun to crawl a little, one of his biggest motivators was his babysitters little girl. She is a couple of months older than him and started to crawl and sit up and now walks before he has, seeing her and playnig with her was the best motivator, now he crawls pretty well trying to go after her when they play! He wouldn't do anyting either no matter what I tried, until he saw someone else his age doing it, now he just has to keep up, so maybe setting play dates with other babies around her age so she can have the peer tutoring lol to help her along

Jen - posted on 08/07/2009

my doctor said they use more of what you daughter already does to mark their progress-hold on to your hands and try to stand on their feet. I've had several friends who's babies never crawled. And other's who's toddlers didn't start walking till almost 2! Every kid will do it when they want to. You know she's not developmentally deficient because she excels in so many other ways, so don't worry about it. Besides, once she starts getting mobile, you'll wish she'd stay in one place for 2 seconds again! ;-)

Lisa - posted on 08/07/2009

every baby is different my eldest never crawled but at one just let go of chair and walked, but youngest crawled at 7 mnths, i crawled round the front room getting choc buttons and he copied me. Im sure that was cheating lol but i wouldnt of been upset if he hadnt they all do things there own way. Enjoy the non movement before you know it there will be toast posted into your dvd player!!!!!

Marla - posted on 08/07/2009

count your blessings! my 8 mo is such a handful and it got much worse when she started to crawl - very early - right before she turned 6 mo. all we have done the last few months is chase after her. i've heard that some babies bypass the crawling stage altogether and drs don't use crawling as a milestone b/c there are so many variations, so don't worry as long as she seems fine in all other respects!

Camille - posted on 08/07/2009

She might just go straight to walking in a few months. My friend's baby never crawled and was a late walker, he was happy just to sit and play.

Mine is eager to move around, but she walks like a little doggie, on her hands and feet. I don't think she'll ever crawl properly. She doesn't get the concept.

All babies are different, but they all get to the same place eventually. =) We just have to remember it's not a race between our babies and our friend's babies! Hahah.

Danielle - posted on 08/07/2009

my daughter is 8mths and 2days and hasnt made any attempts to crawl yet either!! so dont feel bad!!

Angela - posted on 08/07/2009

I wouldn't worry about your daughter not crawling yet. My daughter was a lot like yours - showed no interest in being on her belly and showed no interest in crawling. Then three days after she turned 8 months old she just started crawling - out of the blue. It was so shocking to me, but she was ready I guess. So, just continue doing what you're doing and when she's ready to crawl she will. And don't let anyone put you down about it or make you feel like your baby girl is in some sort of competition with other children. Every baby is unique and perfect in her own way. Plus, once she starts crawling and cruising, you'll wonder why you wanted her to be mobile. You'll be chasing her all over the house non-stop :)

Nancy - posted on 08/07/2009

I think crawling is an important step (pardon the pun) before walking. They used to tell us not to use all those baby seats and to make sure our babies got mostly blanket time. But I agree, at 8 months you want your baby to crawl. The jumpies and the saucers can make babies push with their tummies and that can also delay walking. Crawling really is the natural process before walking. Maybe if Mom crawls around a little, baby will get the idea. The bottom line is don;t sweat it, but try to encourage it, and of course, Have Fun with that beautiful baby of yours!!!!!

Juanita - posted on 08/07/2009

hi there play with her while sitting, give her toys in a position that makes her lean over and lean on one hand while streching with the other hand to get the toy, as she gets better at it without landing on her face move the toy further so that she would have to lift her bottem a little to far enough that she needs to lean on her knee too... don't stress about it though she has plenty of time. My daughter never really crawled untill after she could walk (then we played dog & cat) as the motion of crawl is important. some babies scoot on their bottems some roll from place to place as long as she tries to move just have fun with her!!!

Amanda - posted on 08/06/2009

I have 3 children, who all started to crawl around 11 months. the first walked a month later, 2nd walked at 15mths, & 3rd just started 17mths ! They r all very bright children, with no developmental problems. I was so worried with my first, but now understand they dont have to tick allthe boxes... dont stress... she will be fine.

Isobel - posted on 08/06/2009

I remember being so excited that my son was pulling himself up and "cruising" when he was seven months...wow! how awesome! He'll be walking at 9 months I told everyone...he was 16 months before he let go...don't sweat it, it means absolutely nothing!

Leilanie - posted on 08/06/2009

Just keep putting her on her tummy even though she doesn't like it, my first daughter hated it at first, then where i had to go back to work and leave her with the sitter the sitter would do tummy time 3 times a day for 15 mins, and she started taking to it. Then when i started taking her to daycare which was around 6 months she was crawling two weeks after that. Babies do things at their own time.