As your baby acquires head control, the adventure continues. The progression of gross motor development typically follows a pattern of increasing strength and coordination, moving from the head and neck down and from the center to the extremities. You’ll notice several mini-milestones in these coming months, and soon, you’ll notice your little one in more of a “chest up” position as they learn to hold weight in their elbows and then palms.
During floor time, your baby can build strength through movements like:
Inchworming / Pivoting on their back *pivoting on their belly will come much later
Turning to their side to reach a toy and returning to their back
Raising on one elbow while side lying
Turning from tummy to side lying
Resting on elbows during tummy time
Fully extends arms during tummy time and uses hands, abdomen, and thighs for support
During tummy time, can “fly” by lifting head, arms, and legs simultaneously
These movements are typically what babies work on between months 3, 4, and 5.! While you may be eagerly awaiting later sitting and crawling, celebrate these purposeful milestones! They are just as significant.