When do Babies Start Crawling? A Complete Guide for Parents

May 20, 2025

Watching your baby grow and learn new things is one of the most exciting parts of parenting. One big milestone that many parents look forward to is learning to crawl. But when do babies start crawling?

Crawling is such a fun milestone. It means your baby’s getting stronger, more curious, and ready to explore. But here’s the thing—not all babies crawl at the same age, and that’s okay.

In this easy guide, we’ll talk about when babies usually start crawling, what crawling looks like, and how you can help your little one get there.

Let’s get started.

When Do Babies Start Crawling?

Most babies start crawling between 7 and 12 months. This is the average crawling age for infants, but don’t stress if your baby crawls a bit earlier or later—every baby is unique!

Some babies start as early as 6 months, and others may skip crawling completely and go straight to walking. So, if you're wondering, “When do babies start crawling on average?”—it’s around 8 to 10 months for many, but it’s not a fixed rule.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) no longer lists crawling as a milestone because babies develop so differently.

Why Do Babies Crawl?

Crawling is more than just moving around. It helps babies:

Build the muscles they need for walking later

Explore the world in their own way

Learn through movement and play.

That’s why crawling is such an exciting stage—it’s a big sign that your baby is growing both physically and mentally.

Skills Babies Learn Before Crawling

Before babies start crawling, they go through a few important steps:

Holding up and controlling their head

Moving arms and legs freely

Rolling over (front to back and back again)

Sitting up with or without help

Pushing up during tummy time

Balancing on hands and knees

These little skills build up the strength and coordination they need. So, at what age do babies crawl? It depends on how and when they master these pre-crawling skills.

7 Stages of Crawling (Step-by-Step Progress)

Yes, babies don’t just crawl out of nowhere! Many go through what experts call the 7 stages of crawling. Here’s what those stages often look like:

Tummy Time – Lying on their tummy helps strengthen neck, back, and shoulder muscles

Pivoting – Turning in circles while on the belly

Planking – Pushing up on hands and toes like a baby is doing a push-up

Scooting Forward – Dragging the belly using arms (commando crawling)

Rocking on Hands and Knees – Gently rocking back and forth to build balance

Pushing Backwards – Some babies crawl in reverse at first

Moving from Belly to Sitting – Shows stronger core control

These steps help prepare babies for the big moment: crawling.

By the Way—Crawling Means You’re Packing More, Too.

Once your baby starts crawling, outings can get a bit more... let’s say exciting. You’re not just packing diapers anymore—you’re suddenly grabbing extra clothes, snacks, wipes, toys, and everything else “just in case.” That’s when a good diaper bag becomes your best friend.

If you’re looking for something that’s super practical and still looks great, check out the Swaddle Tote. It’s actually two bags in one—one for longer days out and a smaller one for quick errands.

It fits everything (yes, even your laptop), and it's easy to carry around while chasing your little crawler. Makes life a bit easier for sure.

When your baby starts crawling, knowing what to pack in your diaper bag can make outings much easier.

Different Crawling Styles

Every baby crawls in their own way—and that’s perfectly okay! Here are some common styles:

Crawling Style	What It Looks Like
Classic Crawl	Hands and knees, moving one hand and the opposite knee at a time
Belly Crawl	Dragging the belly using arms (commando style)
Bear Crawl	Crawling with straight arms and legs, like a bear
Bottom Shuffle	Scooting on their bum using hands or feet
Crab Crawl	Moving sideways with one leg tucked
Rolling Crawl	Rolling from place to place
Crawling Backwards	Going in reverse while trying to move forward

Some babies even start crawling on their knees and switch between styles. Every method is a smart baby’s way of figuring things out!

Also, traveling with a crawling baby? Don’t miss our 10 tips for traveling with babies to stay stress-free.

How Can I Help My Baby Crawl?

Helping your baby crawl can be simple and fun. Here are easy tips:

Try These Tips:

Tummy Time Every Day: Start from birth—just a few seconds, then increase as they grow. Make it fun with toys, music, or tummy time outside!

Play on the Floor Together: Babies love your company. Get down and play face-to-face.

Encourage Reaching: Place toys just out of reach to motivate crawling.

Use Toys as Motivation: Put toys on a couch or small table to encourage movement.

Lead by Example: Crawl in front of your baby—they may copy you!

Avoid Slippery Clothes: Bare knees and feet help babies grip the floor better.

Skip Baby Walkers: They can delay movement and even lead to injuries.

Make Your Home Safe for Crawling

Once your baby starts crawling, even a little, it’s time to baby-proof your space:

Remove choking hazards (small toys, coins, buttons)

Keep hot drinks, sharp objects, and cords out of reach

Cover sharp furniture corners

Use baby gates to block stairs or dangerous areas

Making the space safe means your baby can explore freely as they reach the crawling age for infants.

Crawling and Sleep Changes

Around 8–9 months, when your baby is busy learning to crawl, they might start waking up at night more often. Why? Because they want to practice crawling—yes, even in the crib!

This is totally normal and usually goes away on its own. Give your baby time during the day to move and play—it helps with nighttime sleep too.

When to Talk to a Doctor

Most babies crawl in their own time and in their own way, but if your baby isn’t moving at all by 12 months, only uses one side of their body, has trouble putting weight on their arms or legs, or seems very floppy or too stiff, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor or nurse. If you’re ever unsure or something just doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to check.

Wrapping Up

So, when do babies start crawling? On average, it’s between 7 and 12 months, but there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some crawl early, some late, and some skip crawling altogether. What matters most is that your baby is exploring, learning, and enjoying the process.

Be patient, offer support, and celebrate every wiggly, squirmy, silly little step along the way.

Also, if you have twins who are crawling, see tips from a mom in Swaddle Tote diaper bags for twins.

FAQs

What is the earliest age a baby crawls?

Some babies may start crawling as early as 5 months, though it’s not common. Every baby grows at their own pace, so early crawling is still normal.

Do babies start to crawl at 4 months?

It’s rare, but a few babies might show early signs of crawling at 4 months, like scooting or pushing up. Most babies crawl later, around 6 to 10 months.

What is considered early crawling?

Crawling before 6 months is usually seen as early. It just means your baby is hitting that milestone a bit ahead of the average.

Do autistic babies crawl differently?

Some autistic babies may crawl in unique ways like scooting on one side or using only one hand or leg. If you're unsure, it's okay to talk to your doctor.

When do babies start crawling on their knees?

Babies usually start crawling on their knees around 7 to 10 months. Before that, they might scoot or army crawl.

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