As parents, the eagerness to grasp our child’s progress during the early stages of life often leads us to fixate on developmental milestones. It’s only natural to seek reassurance regarding our child’s growth and wonder if we’re on the right parenting path. However, it’s essential to understand that child development does not adhere to a one-size-fits-all model. In fact, there is a vast spectrum encompassing how children develop their skills, suggesting that traditional benchmarks may not always accurately reflect what’s considered “normal.”
In February 2022, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made notable updates to their list of developmental milestones. These changes sparked debates among child development specialists, particularly concerning the exclusion of crawling as a significant milestone. Various experts argue that crawling should remain on the checklist to emphasize its importance. Pediatrician and parent coach Dr. Molly O’Shea highlights that motor skills develop through intrinsic processes that are less influenced by parental interaction compared to social and linguistic skills.
Traditionally, the CDC reported that about 50% of babies would crawl by nine months, but developmental variability is considerably broader. This means that while most babies will crawl between six and twelve months, some may never crawl in the conventional sense. They might opt for alternative methods of movement such as rolling, scooting, or army crawling, and still be entirely healthy in their development.
Children are unique in their mobility patterns, and it is increasingly recognized that some may skip crawling altogether and transition directly to pulling themselves up to a stand and walking. Occupational therapist Dr. Brittany Ferri maintains that the absence of crawling does not equate to developmental delays, providing comfort to parents unaware of the wide range of normalcy in early movement patterns. It’s critical, however, to monitor for signs of purposeful movement around the age of nine months.
If there are apparent delays in movement or exploration—like a lack of reach for toys or recognizable attempts to push up—consultation with a pediatrician can provide essential insights and next steps. The absence of crawling should not automatically create alarm but can serve as a cue for open dialogue about developmental supports.
The conversation surrounding crawling is evolving. While it has long been thought of as a vital developmental phase, experts increasingly suggest it is not a definitive requirement for other developmental markers, such as cognitive function or future motor abilities. Dr. O’Shea points out that some outdated beliefs posited that crawling was tightly linked to other later skills, like reading—yet modern understanding offers a more nuanced perspective.
Crawling, while beneficial for motor coordination and strength, is no longer seen as a linchpin in the development spectrum. Hence, reevaluating the importance of milestones allows for a more individualized view of development that accommodates all children, regardless of how they navigate the early stages of life.
While the debate rages on about the necessity of crawling, it is crucial to acknowledge that it can indeed offer physical benefits. Crawling facilitates coordination and builds strength as infants learn to balance their body’s weight while moving. Additionally, engagement in this form of mobility may provide cognitive advantages, as exploring various environments helps to stimulate curiosity and creativity.
However, it’s also essential to recognize that if a child exhibits a readiness to walk but lacks the typical crawling behavior, the focus should shift accordingly. Encouraging pulling to stand and walking should take precedence if that is what the child is naturally inclined to do, guiding them through their unique developmental journey.
For parents looking to support their child’s motor development, providing ample floor time for play and exploration is paramount. Ensuring toys are placed within sight yet out of reach can motivate movement, while limiting distractions encourages focused play. Tummy time remains vital for strengthening muscles but should be balanced with opportunities for children to experiment in different positions.
Modeling movements, such as crawling, alongside the child can provide both a visual cue for them and strengthen the parent-child bond. Amidst this, parents must remember that every child is distinct. If concerns about developmental pace arise, consulting a pediatrician should always be prioritized, as they can provide tailored advice and support.
It is critical for parents to embrace the diverse pathways of child development rather than imposing rigid milestones. While some children may crawl, others may not, and both experiences are perfectly valid. Ultimately, prioritizing a child’s feelings of safety and encouragement, while fostering opportunities for exploration, will lay the foundation for their growth—regardless of when or how they achieve specific skills. Celebrating each child’s unique journey allows parents to enjoy the nuances of growth, transforming what can sometimes be a stressful experience into one rich with joy and discovery.