Ready to Roll?

Rolling is an important motor milestone that helps develop neck, back, abdominal, and hip muscles. Babies may start rolling as early as 4 months and usually begin with tummy to back rolling and advance to back to tummy rolls. Babies are usually able to perform planned rolling in both directions by 6-7 months. Rolling is a crucial step of development as it allows baby to begin motor planning, coordinating body movements, and developing sensory systems.

So how can you help your child with rolling?

Lots of tummy time! If your child doesn't enjoy tummy time, start with a few minutes and slowly increase as they are able to tolerate. Your child may also do better by resting trunk on elevated surface such as a pillow or your leg. Your baby will begin to tuck their arms underneath themselves and push up onto forearms while lifting head. This is an important step in muscle development and the beginning of rolling. Babies often roll the first time accidentally when in this position. They may rest on forearms and weight shift towards you or toy and roll onto their backs. Then they will slowly begin strengthening these muscles to perform a more controlled roll from belly to back.

You can also place a toy or yourself just out of child's reach and encourage movement towards your direction. Make sure to provide lots of encouragement and make the activity fun. If your child begins to follow the toy, move it in an arc motion in the way they are rolling so they will begin to move arm over midline to the other side and follow the toy to complete a roll.

You can help your baby by practicing the roll with them and rolling their bodies through the correct movements so they understand where they need to go. Once they begin to roll, place a gentle pressure at the back of hip when lying on back to initiate rolling. Continue pressure as the baby begins to follow through with arm. They may begin only rolling to sidelying.

*Always be aware to have child supervised while rolling, especially on elevated surfaces.

What if my child isn't rolling by 6 months?

Children are all unique and may develop motor skills at slightly later times. However, if there is a concern, please speak with your child's pediatrician or physical therapist for further evaluation as it is better to start treatment early to prevent further delay of milestones.

Have some questions? Reach out to Dr. Haley, PT at Haley@setinmotionphysicaltherapy.com or give us a call for an evaluation.