As a parent, you want the best for your child from the moment they are born. But your role is not limited to feeding, changing and playing with them. There is much more you can do to support their development, especially in the first year of their life.

Many scientific studies have shown how crucial this period is for their psychomotor skills. And one of the most important activities for your child is crawling.

Why is crawling so beneficial? Before children learn how to crawl, they usually move in a one-sided way. For instance, they move their right hand and right foot together. When they start crawling with the opposite hand and foot (cross-crawling), they begin to coordinate the two sides of their body and perform a specific task.

Cross-crawling helps them cross the “midline”, which is an imaginary line that divides the body into left and right halves. Crossing the midline is essential for skills such as walking, running, swimming and even writing.

Crawling also strengthens the connections between the two brain hemispheres and improves the communication between them. This can have a positive impact on their academic performance later on.

Disclaimer: The information and opinions expressed on this blog are for educational and informational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice and are not intended to replace the guidance of your GP, physiotherapist, or specialist. You should always consult with a qualified health professional before making any changes to your baby's health or lifestyle. The author and the blog are not liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use or misuse of the information on this blog.