Your Baby & Toddler

HOW TO ENCOURAGE CRAWLING

-

Put your baby on the floor on his tummy. Tummy time is very important and strengthen­s the neck, back and shoulder muscles that are necessary for crawling.

Put an interestin­g toy like a mirror or rattle just within reach of your baby. Hopefully he will place his weight forward on his arms in order to get hold of the toy.

Your baby is usually fascinated by you. Let him lie on his tummy on the bed while you sit on the floor in front of him and entertain him.

Encourage your baby to explore on his own in a safe environmen­t.

Drape your baby over a roller type toy (there are inflatable ones on the market that work well) to strengthen his back muscles.

Lie in front of your baby on the ground. Laugh and chat to him and encourage him to lift his head and upper body.

If your baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time, raise him a little higher by placing a rolled-up towel under his chest for more support.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from South Africa