Development FAQ: 0-6 months – Learning

How do I get my baby of almost six months to sit on her own without toppling?

How can I get my baby to sit alone safely? Even with cushions on the floor, I am afraid she will topple and hurt her head. Do I wait until she is ready?

A baby’s muscles are developing from birth. Control starts with the head and moves down the trunk until the body is strong enough to be supported in the sitting position. To help your daughter sit unaided, she needs plenty of practice and encouragement from you. Spending lots of time on her tummy will help her lift her neck and strengthen her back muscles. By four months, she should be able to do mini press-ups using her forearms to lift her head and shoulders off the ground.

From birth you may prop her in a sitting position so she can see a little more of what is going on. A V-shaped cushion or “Boppy” will help support her. Once she begins to show signs of pushing her shoulders and head forward from the cushion, let her practice sitting between your legs. Sit on the floor and place your daughter between your legs so her head and back are against your body. If you can, bring the soles of your feet together making an enclosure for her. Let her arms lie over your legs to give her support. Begin to let go of her for brief moments so she is “sitting” on her own supported by you. This will give her the confidence she needs to learn to sit alone. She may slip to one side but your legs will prevent her from falling right over. Her head may still wobble if she moves suddenly, but with practice her control will get stronger.

Once she is nearing six months, begin to place her within a circle of cushions, using a V or “Boppy” behind her if you have one. Stay close by and make a game of catching her if she begins to topple. Her natural sitting position is on her bottom with her legs out at right angles, so much of her weight is on the backs of her thighs. The knees will be bent and often the soles of the feet touch. This is a good, balanced sitting posture, taking the strain off her lower back and allowing her to breathe well. To begin with, a baby will lean forward and use their hands and arms for support as they sit. By about seven months, however, your daughter will be able to sit up and use her hands to hold toys and play. At this stage, her head control will allow her to look around without losing her balance.

Until you are sure she is well balanced and able to twist and turn safely, keep her within her cushions and stay within reach. Any falls that do happen may surprise her, but she will be falling into something soft. A gentle “all fall down, up we come” will take away any anxiety and she will be willing to try again. Do enjoy this stage, as encouraging your daughter to sit alone can be fun for both of you.