#asktheexpert My baby moving sideways but not trying to roll over .

Question

Accepted Answer

It's normal for a 4-month-old baby to exhibit some movement, like moving sideways, but not yet rolling over. Each baby develops at their own pace, and milestones like rolling over usually occur between 4 to 6 months. Here's what you can do to encourage rolling:

1. Tummy Time: Ensure your baby gets plenty of tummy time while awake, as this helps build the muscles necessary for rolling. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time as your baby becomes more comfortable.

2. Encourage Movement: While your baby is on their tummy, try to get their attention with a toy or something visually stimulating to encourage them to reach and move towards it.

3. Gentle Assistance: You can gently guide your baby's body by gently turning them from one side to the other to help them learn the motion.

4. Strengthen Upper Body: Activities like propping your baby up while sitting (with support) can also strengthen the muscles needed for rolling.

Remember, babies develop at different rates, and not all babies roll over exactly at 4 months. As long as your baby is reaching other developmental milestones, there's generally no need to worry. However, if you're concerned, it’s always a good idea to discuss your child's development with your pediatrician.