Seeing our babies go from supine to sitting is an exciting milestone, and it’s common to prop babies up due to this excitement. However, experts often raise a healthy dose of caution about prematurely propping babies in seated positions.
Here are two key points to consider:
Sitting is a progression of skillsSitting independently doesn’t come from being propped up; it comes from a progression in their motor skills that allow for the coordination, balance, and strength to get into and out of the seated position themselves. The best way to support this progression is to allow time and space for transitional milestones that build strength. Tummy time and floor play build these needed skills.
Respectful caregiving and autonomyAdvocates of the RIE method, or respectful caregiving for babies, emphasize how it can be foundational to emotional development to let baby lead their movements. Propping your baby in a seated position can give the impression that things are happening to them without their consent. Allowing babies to explore their environment independently encourages self-awareness and self-esteem.
What about supported sitting?
It’s normal for emerging sitters to be wobbly. It’s okay to put their hands around their ribcage or a support pillow around them on the floor in case they lose their balance. This is a way to meet them where they are. However, propping your baby in different seated positions regardless of their readiness or defaulting to baby gear over self-directed floor play can hinder their development.
Think about it this way: The goal is to support them in their quest to sit up, not to override it.