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When do babies start crawling: tips and what to know.
Most babies crawl between 7–10 months. Learn the signs your baby is ready, ways to support crawling and when to speak to a health professional.
4 min
18/03/2026
When do babies usually start crawling?
Signs your baby is getting ready to crawl
The different ways that babies crawl
Why crawling is important for development
How to encourage your baby to crawl
What if your baby is not crawling yet?
What comes after crawling?
Supporting your baby’s physical development
FAQs around crawling
Crawling is one of the most exciting milestones in early development because it marks the beginning of independent movement. For many parents, it is the moment their baby starts to explore the world in a completely new way.
If you are wondering when babies start crawling, it is helpful to know that there is a wide range of normal. While many babies begin crawling between 7 and 10 months, some start earlier, some later, and some may not crawl in a traditional way at all.
When do babies usually start crawling?
Crawling often develops after other important milestones such as rolling, sitting without support and pushing up during tummy time.
These earlier stages help build the strength and coordination needed for crawling.
However, not all babies follow the same path. Some babies skip crawling altogether and move straight to pulling up and walking. This can still fall within typical development.
Signs your baby is getting ready to crawl
Crawling develops gradually through a series of physical changes rather than appearing overnight.
Stronger tummy time
Tummy time helps build the muscles in the neck, shoulders and core. Babies who are comfortable spending time on their tummy are often developing the strength needed for crawling.
Rocking on hands and knees
You may notice your baby pushing up onto their hands and knees and rocking back and forth. This is an important stage where they are learning balance and coordination.
Rolling and pivoting
Some babies begin by rolling or moving in circles before they move forwards. This is a normal part of learning how to control their body.
Reaching and pulling toward objects
As babies become more curious, they may try to move towards toys or people. This motivation often drives the transition into crawling.
The different ways that babies crawl
Not all babies crawl in the same way. There are several variations, and all can be part of typical development.
Some babies use a classic hands and knees crawl, while others may commando crawl, pulling themselves along the floor. Some babies shuffle on their bottom, and others use a bear crawl with straight legs.
It is also worth remembering that some babies skip crawling entirely and move straight into standing and walking.
Why crawling is important for development
Crawling plays an important role in physical and cognitive development.
It helps build strength in the shoulders, hips and core muscles, all of which are needed later for walking. It also supports coordination, as babies learn to move opposite arms and legs together.
Crawling encourages spatial awareness, helping babies understand distance, obstacles and their environment. It also builds confidence and independence as they begin to explore more freely.
How to encourage your baby to crawl
If you are wondering how to help your baby crawl, simple, supportive strategies are often the most effective.
Prioritise daily tummy time
Regular, supervised tummy time helps strengthen the muscles needed for crawling.
Create safe floor space
Giving your baby space on the floor allows them to practise movement and explore their environment.
Use toys as motivation
Placing toys slightly out of reach can encourage your baby to move towards them.
Get down on the floor with your baby
Babies learn by watching and copying. Being on the floor with them can encourage movement and interaction.
What if your baby is not crawling yet?
It is very common for parents to worry if their baby is not crawling at the same time as others. Development varies widely, and some babies use alternative ways of moving, such as rolling, shuffling or commando crawling. Others may move straight towards standing and walking. You may wish to speak to a health visitor or GP if your baby shows no interest in moving, struggles to support their weight, or has not developed any mobility by around 12 months.
What comes after crawling?
After crawling, babies usually begin pulling up to stand, cruising along furniture and eventually taking their first steps. These stages often appear between 9 and 12 months. Crawling helps build the strength and coordination needed for these later milestones.
Supporting your baby’s physical development
Crawling is just one part of a wider developmental journey.
Providing a safe environment, opportunities for movement and play, and supporting your baby’s overall wellbeing through nutrition and sleep all contribute to healthy development. Every baby develops at their own pace. With time, support and encouragement, they will continue to build the skills they need.
FAQs around crawling
Most babies crawl between 7 and 10 months, but variation is normal.
Yes, some babies move straight to standing and walking.
Tummy time, floor play and motivation through toys can all help.
Not necessarily. Development varies widely.
If your baby shows no interest in movement or has not developed mobility by around 12 months, it is a good idea to seek advice.
