Nourishing Your Baby

 

    Ensuring your baby receives proper nutrition is one of the most important aspects of their growth and development for new parents. Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or doing a combination of both, making informed choices can help you feel more confident about your baby’s well-being. Given the concerns over formula safety and availability, the U.S. government launched "Operation Stork Speed" in March 2025, a program aimed at providing mothers with better quality and safer baby formula options. With more resources and support available, parents can now make choices with greater peace of mind.

Breastfeeding: Benefits and Tips

Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies that support your baby’s immune system. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months when possible. Here are some tips to make the journey smoother:

• Ensure a Good Latch – A proper latch helps with milk transfer and prevents discomfort.

• Feed on Demand – Newborns typically eat every 2-3 hours; watch for hunger cues like rooting or sucking on their hands.

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished – Your body needs extra fluids and nutrients to support milk production.

• Seek Support – Lactation consultants can provide guidance on breastfeeding challenges.

Formula Feeding: Safe and Reliable Choices

For parents using formula, knowing you have access to safe and high-quality options is essential. "Operation Stork Speed" has prioritized improving formula safety and availability. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Choose an FDA-Approved Formula – Ensure the formula meets nutritional standards and safety regulations.

• Follow Proper Preparation Guidelines – Use clean bottles, measure formula accurately, and follow the instructions on the label.

• Watch for Recalls – Stay updated on formula recalls to ensure your baby’s safety.

• Find a Feeding Routine – Just like with breastfeeding, feed on demand and look for hunger and fullness cues.

Check this out!

Introducing Solids: A New Adventure

Around six months, most babies are ready to start solids alongside breast milk or formula. Signs of readiness include good head control, interest in food, and the ability to sit up with support. Some tips for starting solids include:

• Begin with Single-Ingredient Purees – Foods like mashed sweet potatoes, avocado, and oatmeal are great starters.

• Introduce One New Food at a Time – This helps identify any allergies or sensitivities.

• Avoid Honey and Cow’s Milk Before Age One – These can be harmful to infants.

• Make Mealtime Fun – Allow your baby to explore different textures and flavors at their own pace.

Trust Yourself

    Every baby is unique, and feeding experiences vary from family to family. Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or do both, what matters most is that your baby is growing and thriving. Don’t hesitate to seek support from pediatricians, lactation consultants, or parenting groups if you have concerns.

    You’re doing an incredible job, and every meal is a step toward your baby’s healthy future. Trust yourself, embrace the journey, and know that your love and care are the most important ingredients in your baby’s nutrition!

Sleepless Nights

    

     Becoming a new parent is an incredible journey filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. However, one of the biggest challenges in the first year of parenthood is sleep deprivation. If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or anxious, know that you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 61% of parents experience extreme fatigue, with 86% waking up multiple times during the night to check on their baby. The good news? This phase is temporary, and there are ways to manage your exhaustion while caring for your little one.

Understanding Infant Sleep Patterns

Newborns sleep in short cycles, typically waking every 2-3 hours for feedings. Their sleep schedule doesn’t follow a predictable pattern because their circadian rhythm—the internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles—is still developing. By 3-6 months, many babies begin sleeping for longer stretches at night, though every baby is different.

Tips for Coping with Sleep Deprivation

While sleepless nights are inevitable in early parenthood, there are strategies to help you manage fatigue and feel more rested:

• Sleep When Your Baby Sleeps – It’s a classic piece of advice, but it truly helps. Even short naps throughout the day can improve your energy levels.

• Share Nighttime Duties – If possible, alternate night shifts with your partner or a trusted family member so you can get longer, uninterrupted sleep.

• Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine – Soothing activities like a warm bath, dim lighting, and gentle rocking can help signal to your baby that it’s time for sleep.

• Prioritize Rest Over Chores – The laundry and dishes can wait. Use any downtime to rest instead of catching up on household tasks.

• Ask for Help – Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or a postpartum doula for assistance. Accepting help allows you to recharge and be more present for your baby.

The Emotional Toll of Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep isn’t just about feeling tired—it can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Many new parents experience heightened stress, mood swings, and even postpartum depression or anxiety. If you find yourself struggling, reach out to a healthcare professional for support. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Finding Comfort in the Journey

It’s important to remind yourself that this stage won’t last forever. As your baby grows, their sleep patterns will improve, and you’ll eventually get more rest. In the meantime, be kind to yourself, celebrate the small victories, and remember that every sleepless night is a testament to the deep love and care you have for your child.

You’re doing an amazing job, and your strength during this phase is remarkable. Keep going, one night at a time—you’ve got this!

What Every Parent Should Know About Your Newborn's Soft Spot

    The fontanelle is designed to accommodate your baby’s rapidly growing brain and to allow flexibility during birth. It enables the skull bones to move slightly, making delivery easier and reducing pressure on the baby’s head.

Is It Normal for the Soft Spot to Move?

    Yes! You might notice that the soft spot appears to pulsate slightly. This is completely normal and occurs because the fontanelle is directly over blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your baby’s brain.

How to Care for Your Baby’s Soft Spot

Although the soft spot is a delicate area, it is covered by a strong membrane that protects the brain. Here are some tips for gentle care:

• Handle with care: You can touch and wash your baby’s head gently without fear of harming them.

• Support the head: Always cradle your baby’s head and neck when picking them up.

• Monitor for changes: A slightly sunken soft spot can be a sign of dehydration, while a bulging soft spot (when the baby is calm) might indicate increased pressure. If you notice either, consult your pediatrician.

When to Call a Doctor

While the fontanelle usually requires no special attention, call your pediatrician if you notice:

• A significantly sunken fontanelle, which could indicate dehydration.

• A bulging fontanelle when the baby is not crying, which could signal increased pressure in the brain.

• Any unusual swelling, redness, or tenderness around the area.

Embracing the Journey

    It’s natural to feel protective of your newborn’s soft spot, but rest assured, it’s designed to be resilient! With gentle care and a watchful eye, your baby will continue to grow and thrive. Parenting is a journey filled with new discoveries, and you’re doing an amazing job learning every step of the way.

    If you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician—they are there to support you and your little one on this beautiful adventure!

Belly Button Care

One of the first things you’ll notice about your newborn is their umbilical cord stump. Proper care is essential to ensure healing and prevent infection. Here’s everything new parents need to know about caring for their baby’s belly button in those first few weeks.

Understanding the Umbilical Cord Stump

After birth, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving a small stump attached to your baby’s belly button. This stump typically dries up and falls off within 1 to 3 weeks. Proper care will help it heal naturally and prevent complications.

How to Care for Your Baby’s Belly Button

1. Keep It Clean

• Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton ball with warm water to gently clean around the stump.
• Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can delay healing.
• Wash your hands before touching the area to prevent infection.

2. Keep It Dry

• Allow the stump to air dry as much as possible.
• Avoid covering it with a diaper—fold the diaper down to keep it exposed.
• Dress your baby in loose clothing to allow airflow.

3. Avoid Pulling or Picking

• The stump will naturally fall off when it’s ready. Do not pull on it, even if it looks like it’s hanging by a thread.
• Some dried blood or oozing is normal when the stump detaches.

4. Give Sponge Baths

• Until the stump falls off, stick to sponge baths instead of full tub baths.
• Once the area is fully healed, you can transition to regular baths.

Signs of a Healing Belly Button

• The stump gradually dries out, shrivels, and darkens before falling off.
• A small amount of dried blood or a slight yellow crust is normal.
• Once the stump detaches, the belly button may look raw but will heal quickly.

When to Call the Doctor

While the healing process is usually smooth, contact your pediatrician if you notice:

• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the belly button.
• A bad smell coming from the stump.
• Persistent bleeding that doesn’t stop.
• Umbilical granuloma, which appears as a small pinkish lump after the stump falls off. This may require medical attention but is usually not serious.
• Umbilical hernia, a bulge near the belly button that becomes noticeable when the baby cries. Most umbilical hernias resolve on their own, but your doctor can monitor it.

The "Innies" and "Outies"

Caring for your baby’s belly button is simple with a little attention and patience. By keeping the area clean, dry, and free from irritation, you can ensure a smooth healing process. If you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. Before you know it, your baby’s adorable belly button will be fully healed and ready for all those tummy-time moments!

Teething 101

Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s development, but it can also be a challenging time for both babies and parents. The process usually begins around 4 to 7 months of age and can continue into toddlerhood. Understanding the signs of teething and how to ease discomfort can help you support your little one during this phase.

Signs That Your Baby is Teething

Every baby experiences teething differently, but common signs include:

• Increased Drooling: Excess saliva can lead to drool rash around the mouth and chin.
• Irritability and Fussiness: Teething pain can make babies more cranky than usual.
• Gum Swelling and Sensitivity: The gums may appear red or swollen where a tooth is emerging.
• Biting and Chewing: Babies may gnaw on their hands, toys, or anything within reach to relieve pressure on their gums.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Some babies may wake up more frequently due to discomfort.
• Loss of Appetite: Sore gums may make feeding uncomfortable.
• Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing: The pain from teething can radiate to the ears and cheeks, leading to these behaviors.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

There are several ways to help ease your baby’s teething discomfort:

1. Use Teething Toys

• Provide soft, BPA-free teething rings or toys for your baby to chew on.
• Refrigerated (not frozen) teething toys can provide extra relief.

2. Gentle Gum Massage

• Wash your hands and gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
• A cold, damp washcloth can also provide comfort when lightly pressed against the gums.

3. Offer Cold Foods and Drinks

• Chilled purees, yogurt, or a cold spoon can be soothing for older babies who are eating solids.
• Cold water in a sippy cup can also help, if age-appropriate.

4. Provide Extra Comfort

• Extra cuddles, rocking, or babywearing can help soothe your fussy baby.
• Try distraction techniques such as reading, singing, or playing gentle music.

5. Over-the-Counter Remedies (With Caution)

• Infant pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months) can be used if recommended by a pediatrician.
• Avoid teething gels containing benzocaine, as they can be harmful to infants.

Teething and Sleep Disruptions

Teething can temporarily affect your baby’s sleep. To help with bedtime:

• Stick to a calming nighttime routine.
• Offer a cool teething toy before bed.
• Provide extra comfort but avoid creating new sleep habits that may be hard to break later.

When to See a Doctor

While teething is a normal process, contact your pediatrician if:

• Your baby has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), as teething does not typically cause high fevers.
• There is excessive swelling, bleeding, or pus around the gums.
• Your baby is inconsolable despite soothing measures.

It Happens So Fast

Teething can be tough, but it’s a temporary phase. By offering comfort and safe teething remedies, you can help ease your baby’s discomfort while ensuring healthy tooth development. If you’re ever unsure about symptoms or pain management, reach out to your pediatrician for guidance.

With patience and care, you and your baby will get through this milestone together!

Should I Get My Baby's Ears Pierced?

 

Piercing a baby’s ears is a personal decision that varies across cultures and families. While some parents choose to pierce their baby’s ears early for cultural or aesthetic reasons, others prefer to wait until the child is older. If you’re considering ear piercing for your baby, here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice.

Things to Consider Before Piercing

1. Cultural and Personal Beliefs

Many cultures pierce a baby’s ears within the first few months of life, while others view it as a choice best left to the child when they are older. Consider your family traditions and personal preferences before making a decision.

2. Age and Timing

There is no strict rule on when to pierce a baby’s ears, but many pediatricians recommend waiting until at least two months old, after the first round of vaccinations. Some parents wait until their child can express a preference, which may reduce potential discomfort or fear.

3. Safety and Health Concerns

Ensuring a safe and sterile environment for the procedure is crucial to prevent infection or complications. Always choose a professional with experience in infant ear piercing, such as a pediatrician’s office or a reputable piercing studio.

Choosing a Safe Piercing Method

• Sterile Equipment: Avoid piercing guns, as they can cause trauma to the ear tissue. Instead, opt for a professional using a sterile needle.
• Earring Material: Choose hypoallergenic materials like 14k gold, titanium, or surgical stainless steel to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
• Professional Setting: Consider having the procedure done at a pediatrician’s office or a trained piercer who follows strict hygiene protocols.

Aftercare and Healing

• Cleaning Routine: Clean the pierced area twice a day with a sterile saline solution or a pediatrician-recommended antiseptic.
• Avoid Touching: Minimize handling of the earrings to prevent irritation or infection.
• Monitor for Infection: Watch for redness, swelling, discharge, or excessive pain. If you notice any of these signs, contact a doctor.
• Healing Time: It typically takes 6-8 weeks for the ears to heal fully. Earrings should not be removed or changed before this time.

Potential Risks and How to Mitigate Them

• Infections: Following a strict aftercare routine can prevent infections.
• Allergic Reactions: Using high-quality, hypoallergenic earrings reduces the risk of skin irritation.
• Choking Hazard: Small earrings pose a choking risk, so ensure they have secure backings and check them regularly.
• Keloids or Scarring: Some children, especially those with a family history of keloids, may develop raised scars around the piercing.

Making the Right Decision for Your Family

Deciding whether and when to pierce your baby’s ears is a personal choice that depends on cultural, health, and family preferences. If you choose to proceed, selecting a safe setting, following aftercare guidelines, and monitoring for any signs of complications can ensure a smooth experience for your baby.

Whatever decision you make, trust that it is the right one for your child and family. If you’re uncertain, consult your pediatrician for additional guidance and reassurance.

What To Expect When Your Baby Gets Circumcised

 

Circumcision is a common procedure for newborn boys in many parts of the world. If you’ve chosen to have your baby circumcised, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. Understanding the process, healing, and aftercare can help ease your worries and ensure your baby’s comfort. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

What is Circumcision?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the skin covering the tip of the penis. It is typically performed within the first few days after birth in a hospital or clinic setting by a trained healthcare provider. While it is often done for cultural, religious, or personal reasons, some studies suggest potential health benefits such as a lower risk of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and certain penile conditions.

Before the Procedure

• Consultation: Your pediatrician or obstetrician will discuss the benefits, risks, and care instructions. This is a good time to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have.
• Preparation: Your baby should be healthy and stable before undergoing circumcision. Some hospitals may require a vitamin K injection to reduce bleeding risk. If your baby was born prematurely or has certain medical conditions, the procedure may be delayed or not recommended.
• Consent: You’ll be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure is performed, confirming your understanding of the procedure and any associated risks.

During the Procedure

• Pain Management: While circumcision is a quick procedure, steps are taken to minimize discomfort. A numbing cream, local anesthetic injection, or sugar pacifier (which has a soothing effect) may be used to help ease any pain.
• Method Used: The provider may use one of several techniques, such as:
  • Plastibell Method: A small plastic ring is placed around the foreskin and left to fall off naturally within a week.
  • Gomco Clamp: A metal clamp is used to remove the foreskin.
  • Mogen Clamp: A clamp is used to quickly remove the foreskin with minimal bleeding.
• Duration: The procedure usually takes about 10-15 minutes, and your baby will be monitored afterward for any immediate concerns.

After the Procedure: What to Expect

• Appearance: The penis may look red, swollen, or have a yellowish crust at the tip. This is a normal part of healing and not a sign of infection.
• Bleeding: A small amount of spotting is normal, but continuous bleeding should be reported to your doctor.
• Discomfort: Your baby may be fussy for a day or two. Over-the-counter infant pain relievers (as advised by your doctor) can help soothe discomfort.
• Diapering:
  • Use petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment on the area to prevent the diaper from sticking and causing irritation.
  • Change diapers frequently to keep the area clean and dry.
• Healing Time: Full healing typically takes 7-10 days, with gradual improvement in appearance.

Caring for Your Baby After Circumcision

Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth healing process. Here are some tips to help your baby recover comfortably:

• Keep the area clean by gently wiping with warm water. Avoid using baby wipes, as they may cause irritation.
• Let the Plastibell ring fall off naturally if this method was used. Do not attempt to pull it off.
• Avoid placing your baby in a tub bath until the circumcision is fully healed—stick to sponge baths instead.
• Watch for signs of discomfort and try to soothe your baby with gentle rocking, skin-to-skin contact, or feeding.

Signs of Complications

While circumcision is generally safe, you should contact your doctor if you notice:

• Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Signs of infection, including pus, increased redness, warmth, or swelling
• Trouble urinating after 12 hours
• A foul smell or unusual discharge
• The Plastibell ring (if used) not falling off within 10 days

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Circumcision is a personal decision that should be made after weighing the pros and cons. Potential benefits include:

• Reduced risk of urinary tract infections, particularly in infancy
• Lowered risk of certain sexually transmitted infections
• Easier hygiene maintenance
• Decreased risk of penile conditions such as phimosis (tight foreskin)

However, it’s important to consider potential risks, including:

• Pain and discomfort during recovery
• Risk of infection or excessive bleeding (though rare)
• Possible dissatisfaction with cosmetic appearance later in life

Get The Facts

Deciding whether to circumcise your baby is a deeply personal choice influenced by medical, cultural, and religious factors. If you choose to proceed, being informed about the procedure and proper aftercare can help ensure a smooth recovery. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns.

By staying prepared and understanding what to expect, you can help your baby heal comfortably and with minimal stress. Whatever decision you make, trust that it is the best one for your family and your child’s well-being.

Then Comes Walking!

 

 One minute, your baby is sitting in the middle of the room, chewing on their sock like it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread. The next, they’re wobbly but determined, making a beeline for the dog's water bowl, leaving you wondering how you suddenly became the unwilling contestant in a game of “keep-the-baby-from-walking-into-danger.”

Welcome to the rollercoaster world of baby’s first steps! If you're wondering when that day will come (and how to survive it), don’t worry—we’ve got all the hilarious and real details, plus a few survival tips to help you brace yourself for the inevitable chaos that follows.

So, When Do Babies Start Walking?

Most babies will take their first steps somewhere between 9 and 15 months. Of course, this timeline is more of a guideline than a hard-and-fast rule—some overachievers might start walking earlier, and others may prefer to keep crawling around like little speedsters until they’re good and ready.

You may also notice that some babies walk confidently with no hesitation at all, while others might do something that looks more like a stumbling, drunken toddler dance (don’t worry, it’s just part of the charm). Your baby’s timeline is unique, so as long as they’re hitting those other milestones like sitting up and standing, they’re on track.

If your baby is still cruising around on all fours past their first birthday, it’s not an emergency! Babies all develop differently, and some will skip walking altogether and jump straight into standing, cruising, or even running! The key is that when they’re ready, they’ll walk, and you’ll be shocked at how fast they start moving!

Signs Your Baby is Gearing Up to Walk

Before your little one takes those monumental first steps, they’ll start showing some signs that they’re ready to leave the crawling phase behind. Here’s what to look out for:

Your baby may start pulling up on furniture, giving you a glimpse of their new, upright world. You’ll likely see them standing for a few seconds, with wobbly legs and an expression that says, "I’m going to try this, but I’m not sure if I’m in control yet." Then, they may start cruising—moving around while holding onto the couch, coffee table, or you (whether you like it or not).

You’ll also notice a little dance of excitement, maybe even some bouncing or swaying, as they try to figure out their balance. And let’s be real, once your baby figures out how to stand, they’ll probably try to walk toward something shiny or loud—anything that’ll make you drop everything and rush to catch them. It’s like their own personal mission impossible.

How to Encourage Walking (Without Losing Your Mind)

So, you want to help your baby walk? Of course, you do! But here’s the thing: baby steps—pun intended—are the way to go. Walking is a natural progression, but there are a few things you can do to help encourage the process:

Let Them Go Barefoot Indoors:
You may have some adorable baby shoes ready to go, but keep them off for now. Babies need to feel the floor with their toes to help them develop balance and coordination. Besides, let’s face it—baby shoes are adorable but also impossible to keep track of, so it’s just easier to let them go barefoot.

Create a Safe (But Exciting) Space:
Baby-proofing your home is key to preventing disaster when your little one gets mobile. Get rid of sharp corners, clear away loose objects, and keep anything breakable far out of reach. And while you’re at it, create a fun, open area with plenty of space for your baby to practice standing, cruising, and eventually taking their first steps. Pro-tip: Get rid of your coffee table. It’ll save your shins.

Give Them Something to Hold On To:
Encourage your baby to practice walking by giving them something sturdy to hold onto. You might try holding your baby’s hands or offering them a push-toy or a sturdy walker. The key is to let them take the lead—don’t push them too fast, but give them a gentle nudge if they need it. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they catch on.

Celebrate Like They Just Won an Olympic Gold Medal:
Baby’s first steps? That’s a momentous occasion that deserves an over-the-top reaction. When they finally do it, clap, cheer, and act like they just discovered fire. Babies feed off your excitement, so make them feel like they’re the star of the show. The more excited you are, the more they’ll want to keep trying to walk.

What Happens After They Start Walking?

You did it! Your baby is officially walking. Congratulations, but guess what? You’re now living in a world of chaos and unpredictability. Your baby will no longer be a stationary, easily-contained bundle of joy. Now, they are a walking whirlwind of exploration.

Expect your house to feel like a race track—nothing will be safe. That phone charger? Gone. The dog’s food bowl? On the floor, definitely. The shiny object they spot across the room? They’re heading straight for it, and nothing will stand in their way. You’ll suddenly realize you need baby-proofing on steroids—and that includes a little something called patience.

In addition to the inevitable chaos, you can look forward to seeing your baby’s wobbly zombie walk and hearing the sounds of thudding falls followed by loud cries. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the process. You’ll be the first one to celebrate their tiny victories, even if those victories happen after a few tumbles.

If Your Baby Isn’t Walking Yet…

Take a deep breath and relax! Babies don’t all walk at the same time, and just because your neighbor’s baby started running marathons at 10 months, doesn’t mean yours is behind. Some babies are just not ready to start walking and prefer to keep things slow. Your baby might crawl, cruise, or even use the furniture as their personal training wheels.

If you’re concerned or feel like your baby is significantly behind in gross motor development, it’s always a good idea to check in with your pediatrician. But the reality is: babies are stubborn little creatures—they will walk when they’re ready.

Enjoy the Ride (And Invest in Comfortable Shoes!)

Walking is a game-changer for both you and your baby. Once your baby starts walking, life will feel like one big adventure, filled with both beautiful moments of independence and utter chaos. You’ll be chasing your baby around, baby-proofing every corner, and probably wondering where all your energy went.

But, most importantly, enjoy these moments! Your little one is growing fast—soon, they’ll be running, and you’ll look back fondly on the days when they only had the courage to take a few steps at a time.

So, embrace the wobbly walk, the bumps, and the falls, and remember: once they start walking, you’ll never sit down again. But at least you’ll get some serious cardio while chasing them.

When to Expect Your Baby to Start Crawling

 

One day, your little one is happily lying on their tummy, and the next, they’re suddenly on the move, scooting and crawling toward their next big adventure! Crawling is an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of your baby’s exploration and independence.

If you’re wondering when this moment will happen and how to encourage it, you’re not alone. Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are some general patterns and signs to look out for as they gain the strength and coordination to crawl.

WHEN DO BABIES TYPICALLY START CRAWLING?

Most babies start crawling somewhere between six and ten months, but there’s a wide range of normal. Some may surprise you by crawling earlier, while others may take a little longer to figure it out. It all depends on factors like muscle strength, personality, and how much time they’ve spent practicing movement.

Before crawling, babies go through important stages of physical development. They start by strengthening their neck and back muscles, pushing up on their arms during tummy time, and rocking back and forth on their hands and knees. Some babies begin scooting on their bellies or rolling as a way to move before transitioning into a full crawl. Others might skip crawling entirely and go straight to pulling up and walking. Every baby finds their own way to get around, and no single method is better than another.

DIFFERENT CRAWLING STYLES

Not all babies crawl the same way, and that’s perfectly normal! Some babies use the classic hands-and-knees crawl, while others develop unique ways to get around. Some might prefer to scoot on their bellies, using their arms to pull forward in an "army crawl." Others shuffle around on their bottoms, pushing with their hands or legs. Some babies experiment with crawling on hands and feet, keeping their knees off the ground in what’s known as a "bear crawl." There are even babies who simply roll from place to place instead of crawling.

No matter how your baby chooses to move, the important thing is that they’re developing coordination and strength in preparation for bigger milestones ahead.

HOW TO ENCOURAGE CRAWLING

Even though crawling is a natural process, there are ways to support your baby as they work toward this exciting milestone.

TUMMY TIME IS KEY

Giving your baby plenty of opportunities to play on their tummy helps strengthen their neck, shoulders, and core, making it easier for them to push up and eventually move forward.

CREATE AN INVITING PLAY SPACE

Placing toys just out of reach can spark curiosity and motivate your baby to stretch, reach, and eventually crawl toward them.

GET ON THE FLOOR WITH THEM

Babies love to mimic! Crawling alongside them and making eye contact, talking, or playing peek-a-boo can make movement feel like a fun and interactive experience.

LIMIT TIME IN BABY GEAR

While swings, bouncers, and activity centers are great for entertainment, too much time in them can limit opportunities for practicing movement. Encouraging more floor time allows babies to explore their bodies and build the confidence needed to move independently.

WHAT IF MY BABY ISN’T CRAWLING YET?

It’s natural to wonder if everything is on track, but babies develop at different rates, and some take a little longer to become mobile. Some skip crawling altogether and go straight to pulling up, cruising along furniture, or taking their first steps. Others may be content to stay in one spot longer before deciding to move.

If your baby isn’t showing signs of movement by their first birthday—whether it’s scooting, rolling, or attempting to pull up—it’s always a good idea to check in with your pediatrician. Every baby develops in their own way, but having a conversation with a doctor can provide reassurance and guidance on ways to support their growth.

THE REAL ADVENTURE IS JUST BEGINNING!

Crawling is just the start of an exciting phase of discovery. Once your baby figures out how to move, they’ll be eager to explore every corner of their world. Before you know it, they’ll be pulling up, cruising along furniture, and taking those first unforgettable steps.

No matter when or how your baby starts moving, they are on their own perfect timeline. Each milestone is a celebration of growth, learning, and curiosity. As a parent, your love, encouragement, and support make all the difference.

Enjoy these precious moments—because once they start moving, there’s no slowing them down!