While head control is a significant achievement, it's important to understand that there's a lot that unfolds between this milestone and the exciting stage of sitting up.
During months 3 and 6, tummy time and floor time are pivotal in building the strength and coordination required for sitting – and later crawling!
Lifting the Chest:Around 3 months, your baby will begin lifting their chest off the ground during tummy time. This action strengthens their neck and upper back muscles, gradually improving their head control.
Pushing Up on Forearms:By the 4-5 month mark, many babies will push up on their forearms during tummy time. This is a significant step as it develops their upper body strength and prepares them for more advanced movements.
Rolling Over:Rolling from tummy to back and vice versa typically starts between 4 and 6 months. This not only demonstrates improved coordination but also lays the groundwork for sitting.
These movements support sitting in a more direct way than putting your baby in a baby seat. That’s because being propped in a seated position with baby gear is limiting baby’s ability to build strength. That said, you may notice your baby’s sitting skills emerge during these same months. This is because sitting is not a single, sudden achievement.
The stages of sitting for your baby
Supported sitting: (3-5 months)Looks like: sitting with your direct, hands-on support around their ribcage
Prop sitting: (4-6 months) Looks like: sitting with both of their hands for balance
Wobble: (5-7 months)Looks like: sitting while beginning to find their balance without hands
Independent Sitting (6-8 months)Looks like: sitting with strong balance but unable to transition in and out of seated position on their own
Functional sitting (7 months+) Looks like: Sitting upright and able to get in and out of a seated position themselves
Every baby develops at their own pace, and it's essential to be patient and encouraging as they progress through these stages. These movements are big work for your little one!