When do babies start crawling? A guide to the milestones

Every baby moves at their own pace: the ages below are guidelines, not tests. Some children crawl early, others go straight from sitting to walking.

The first weeks: a few minutes on the tummy

From the first weeks, a few minutes on their tummy, awake and under your watch, help your baby strengthen their neck, back and shoulders. Lie down facing them or place a colourful toy in front of them to encourage them.

Around 3 to 4 months: lifting up

Your baby lifts their head and upper body, leaning on their forearms. They start reaching out towards what surrounds them: a play arch above them stimulates their curiosity.

Around 4 to 6 months: rolling over

From back to tummy, then tummy to back: your baby discovers they can change position on their own. This is the time to be even more careful on the changing table and the sofa.

Around 6 to 10 months: on the move

Commando crawling, moving on all fours, shuffling on their bottom: every way counts. Clear a safe space on the floor, with a rug, and let them explore barefoot.

Good to know for sleep

As soon as your baby can sit up, kneel or pull themselves up, close the side of your bedside crib or move them to a bed suited to their age, and lower the base if your bed allows it.

These milestones are indicative. If you have a question about your child’s development, your paediatrician is the best person to ask.