Turning over is an important motor development that leads to sitting up and crawling. The ability to successfully turn over expands the baby’s range of activities and promotes further development of both mind and body.
However, the timing of when a baby is able to turn over varies greatly from baby to baby. Many parents may be concerned if their babies are turning later than their peers.
Here, we will discuss the signs of when babies begin to turn over.
When does a baby start turning over?
More and more babies begin to be able to turn over at around 3-4 months of age, and by 4-5 months of age, nearly half of them have mastered it. And by 7 to 8 months of age, almost all babies are able to do so.
On the other hand, “head holding up,” which is one stage before turning over, is acquired by about 60% of babies at 3 to 4 months of age, and by 4 to 5 months of age, most babies have acquired it. The timing of when babies are able to turn over is more scattered than that of “head holding up,” and is characterized by greater individual differences.
Parents are happy if their babies are able to do so earlier, but they may worry if they are slower than other babies. However, as long as the baby’s head is firmly seated and the arms and legs are actively moving, there are few cases in which delayed turning is a major problem.
Although the baby’s weight and height growth itself will be calmer during this period than in the newborn period, the speed at which motor skills and emotions develop is remarkable. However, the developed motor skills do not immediately translate into the acquisition of movements that are considered guidelines for the growth process, such as turning over and sitting up.
Some babies master sitting up before turning over, while others begin turning late but quickly transition to crawling. There is no need to be overly concerned about slow turnover. Let your baby grow at his or her own pace.
Tips for watching over and supporting the practice of turning over in bed
Turning over comes naturally as the muscles and nerves in the trunk and limbs develop. However, some babies do not succeed in turning over because they do not know how to do it.
If your baby shows signs that he or she is about to turn over, it is a good idea to watch for signs and gently support your baby.
What are the signs that a baby is about to turn over?
Turning over a baby requires the use of more muscles and nerves than adults realize. Therefore, it is essential that the baby learns to use his/her body to some extent.
When you see the following behaviors, it is a sign that your baby is about to start turning over.
- While lying on his/her back, the baby is grasping his/her legs and wiggling them.
- Lying on his/her back and actively moving his/her arms and legs.
- Twisting at the waist from side to side while reaching for something beside you.
- When you turn your head to the side, your back and hips go up from the floor.
Conclusion
Each baby has a different speed to grow up or develop the abilities to move their bodies. Even if your baby is slower than other babies, don’t worry too much and just observe him/her well.
