Rolling over is one of the first significant milestones for babies, a sign they are starting their journey towards independent movement.
Often, babies begin by using one leg to push behind them, taking time to learn how to raise and twist their hips over before eventually tipping onto their front. The first time they manage to roll over can be a surprise!
We've put together some tips on how to help your baby roll, so read on to learn more.
A taste of independence
Rolling over is the first step babies need to master before moving on to crawling. Many parents are concerned about their baby meeting the "correct" baby rolling age, but every baby is different and they will roll when ready.
Rolling engages the part of the brain that encourages the right and left sides of the body to coordinate their movements. It takes them time to work out the connection, and many roll accidentally before they are rolling intentionally.
How do I know my baby is ready to roll over?
You may notice your baby attempting to push themselves over from as young as two months old, but typically the closer they get to five months, the more you'll see them trying to move.
They'll start wiggling around, arching their back, and while it might look funny to start, it's preparing them for rolling over.
Roll them before lifting them
If your baby is lying on their baby play mat, looking up at you, before you pick them up, gently roll them over onto their side. You'll notice that as you slowly turn them over, they will try to keep their head in line with their body – this is a reflex they are born with. Take it in turns and roll them on both sides of their body.
Encourage plenty of tummy time on a baby play mat.
Tummy time on a beautiful baby play mat helps your baby strengthen their core muscles, which are essential for them to roll. Lay them on a play mat and place a few toys just out of reach.
As your baby becomes more comfortable on their tummy, you'll notice them starting to push their chest to the floor, and you may even see them rock their body from side to side. These actions are all leading up to them rolling for the first time.
Help them learn how to roll through play.
Play is how babies learn, so the more time you spend playing with your little one on a play mat, the more they will learn about their bodies and environment. Spending quality time with them as they enjoy tummy time and time on their backs looking up at you also encourages bonding with your baby.
If they roll over spontaneously, praise them and acknowledge their efforts with a smile and plenty of cuddles.
Choose Ludere – your perfect baby rolling mat.
Our play mats are available in a range of curated colours and feature minimalist quilting, designed to blend seamlessly with your home's design aesthetic. We believe a baby rolling mat should serve as a comfortable, safe surface for your little one to rest on while they begin exploring their environment.
Explore our range here, and once your baby has mastered rolling, read our article on How to encourage your baby to crawl.
Creating a safe and comfortable space for your baby to learn how to roll is critical, so choose a luxurious, non-toxic tummy time mat for your little one.
Need a gift for an expecting mother but not sure which baby play mat to choose? We offer Gift Cards! The perfect choice when you're not sure which baby play mat your loved one will prefer.
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