Let’s be real—every parent waits for that magical moment when their baby suddenly figures out how to move across the floor. Crawling is one of those milestones that feels huge. It’s a sign of independence, curiosity, and growing strength. But here’s the thing: babies don’t all crawl at the exact same time, and some may even skip crawling altogether. So, the big question parents often ask is: when do babies crawl?
The Typical Age Range for Crawling
Most babies start crawling somewhere between 6 to 10 months old. That’s a pretty wide range, right? Some little ones get moving earlier, while others take their sweet time. And honestly, both are perfectly normal.
By around 6 months, babies are usually sitting without much support. That balance and trunk strength are the foundation for crawling. Fast forward a few months, and suddenly you notice them rocking back and forth on their hands and knees. That’s usually the warm-up before they actually move forward.
Signs Your Baby Is Getting Ready to Crawl
You might be wondering if your baby is close to crawling or still a while away. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Rocking on all fours. Babies often push up onto their hands and knees, then sway back and forth like they’re revving their little engines.
- Scooting or sliding. Some babies shuffle backward before figuring out how to go forward. It’s funny but totally normal.
- Reaching and lunging. When your baby leans forward to grab a toy, it builds the coordination needed for crawling.
If you’re noticing these moves, chances are crawling isn’t far off.
Different Styles of Crawling
Not every baby crawls in the “classic” hands-and-knees style. Some get creative. You might see:
- The belly crawl, where they wiggle across the floor like a little army recruit.
- The bear crawl, with hips high in the air and legs straight.
- The crab crawl, scooting sideways or backward.
And sometimes, a baby decides to skip crawling altogether and go straight to pulling up and walking. That can make parents nervous, but experts say it’s not necessarily a problem. The goal is mobility, and crawling is just one way to get there.
Why Crawling Matters
Even though some babies skip it, crawling does serve an important purpose. It helps strengthen muscles in the arms, shoulders, back, and legs. It also boosts coordination between the left and right sides of the body, which plays a role in later skills like writing, sports, and balance.
Plus, crawling opens up a whole new world for your baby. Suddenly, they can chase after the cat, grab the TV remote, or explore under the coffee table. For them, it’s pure adventure. For you, it’s time to baby-proof everything you forgot about.
Encouraging Your Baby to Crawl
You don’t have to push your baby into crawling, but you can give them opportunities to practice. Tummy time from early on builds strength and helps them get comfortable on the floor. Placing toys just out of reach can motivate them to try moving forward.
And let’s not forget the power of cheering them on. Babies love encouragement. When you celebrate even the smallest scoot, it motivates them to keep trying.
What If My Baby Isn’t Crawling Yet?
If your baby hasn’t started crawling by 12 months, it’s worth checking in with your pediatrician. Sometimes, babies are just late bloomers. Other times, it might signal that they need a little extra support with motor development.
That said, don’t panic. Some babies skip crawling entirely and go straight to walking. As long as your little one is showing progress—rolling, sitting, reaching, pulling up—you’re usually in good shape.
When Crawling Turns Into Walking
The wild part? Crawling is often a short-lived stage. Many babies crawl for just a couple of months before they’re pulling up to stand and testing their legs. By the time they hit their first birthday, lots of babies are already taking those wobbly first steps.
So if your baby is crawling now, enjoy it. This stage passes fast, and soon enough you’ll be chasing a toddler around the house.
Final Thoughts
So, when do babies crawl? For most, it’s between 6 and 10 months, but every baby sets their own pace. Crawling styles may look different, and some babies skip it completely. What matters most is that your little one is building strength, exploring, and gaining confidence in their movements.
As a parent, your job is to encourage, cheer, and—let’s be honest—baby-proof like your life depends on it. Crawling is just one stop on the journey, but it’s a special one. Treasure the wiggles, the scoots, and the giggles along the way, because before you know it, those tiny hands and knees will turn into running feet.
