Occupational Therapy Institute
Motivating Baby to Move
CRUISING & CRAWLING
Motivating to Move
Help nudge your baby from almost-crawler to crawler by implementing the below strategies into their play time!
Belly Crawling
Gives baby a chance to practice coordinating all of their body parts to move forward. To help, put baby in soft clothing with long pants and place them on a slippery floor (like the kitchen floor) without socks.
Pivoting
Helps with coordination of arms and body together. Encourage baby to pivot on their bellies by placing toys, teethers, blankies – whatever motivates them - around them.
Elevate the Surface
Placing items on a slightly higher surface encourages weight bearing on the knees. Place a couch cushion on the floor or create a baby obstacle course for baby to climb over and around.