When your baby isn’t crawling by the age you expected, it’s normal to feel anxious. Maybe you’re looking at other babies as they start to explore and feeling concern that your child isn’t doing the same. You might find yourself wondering, “Is something wrong?” or “Should I wait or act?”
These questions are common, and they often come with a sense of uncertainty that can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you want to do what’s best, but it can be hard to know where to begin.
The truth is, children develop at different rates, and a delay in crawling doesn’t always point to a larger issue. Still, it’s important to stay aware. While all babies develop differently, some crawling delays may be early signs of developmental delays in children. The good news is that support is available.
Understanding what your situation and how early intervention services in Nevada can help can offer real peace of mind
Crawling and Developmental Milestones
Most babies begin to crawl between 6 and 10 months of age, though some may take a bit longer. Some babies army crawl, some scoot (sit on their bottoms and push themselves with their arms), some might skip crawling altogether, moving straight to standing or walking.
Crawling is more than just a mode of movement; it plays an important role in developing coordination, balance, and strength, as well as building the connection between the brain and body. While variations in timing are completely normal, consistently delayed or absent crawling can sometimes be an early sign of a motor delay.
In those cases, support such as early intervention occupational therapy may be recommended.
Occupational therapy for babies focuses on foundational skills like body awareness, joint stability, and motor planning, which are all essential for movement and exploration. When needed, such developmental delay therapy for infants can gently support progress and help identify any underlying challenges.
Watching your baby closely and asking questions early is a proactive way to support their development.
When to Seek Support (And What That Looks Like)
Again, all babies are different, but if your baby isn’t showing interest in crawling or scooting by 9 to 10 months, or if you notice signs like stiffness, floppiness, or difficulty bearing weight on their hands and knees, it may be time to seek additional insight.
These signs don’t necessarily mean something is wrong, but they can signal that your baby might benefit from extra support. Reaching out for guidance is not an overreaction, it’s a thoughtful, proactive step. Early questions can lead to timely answers.
Families in Nevada have access to a wide range of early intervention services designed to support children in their earliest stages of development. Through the early intervention services Nevada offers, infants can receive care in familiar environments like the home or daycare. These services meet your child where they are, helping them build skills gently and steadily with your support every step of the way.
What Is Early Intervention?
Early intervention is a type of support designed to help infants and toddlers who may be experiencing delays in areas like movement, communication, or social development. These services focus on identifying challenges early—often before age three—so families can begin addressing them during a time when a child’s brain and body are especially adaptable. In the first few years of life, growth happens quickly, and small steps taken early can make a meaningful difference later on.
Through early intervention services in Nevada, families can access evaluations and therapy options tailored to their child’s specific needs. These therapies support developmental skills like crawling, feeding, communication, and sensory responses. Families can choose the format that works best for them, whether that’s in-home sessions, clinic-based care, or telehealth. The goal is to meet each child where they are and offer support that feels both manageable and meaningful for the entire family.
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Crawling and Mobility
Occupational therapy for babies is designed to support the development of foundational motor skills like crawling, sitting, and coordinated movement. When a baby shows signs of difficulty in these areas, therapy can gently encourage their growth through guided play and hands-on strategies.
A common focus is improving strength and coordination through activities like tummy time, which helps build the muscles needed for crawling and sitting. Therapists may also work on motor planning (helping babies understand how to move their bodies) and improving responses to sensory input, such as touch or movement.
Therapy sessions are always child-centered, adapting to each baby’s comfort and developmental stage. Whether it’s practicing simple movements or exploring toys that encourage reaching and rolling, the work is both purposeful and engaging. When delays are present, developmental delay therapy for infants through early intervention services offers a supportive way to help babies grow at their own pace, while guiding families with reassurance and care.
What You Can Do Next
Understanding what therapy can offer is important, but knowing how to begin matters just as much. First of all, it’s important not to panic. Feeling worried or uncertain about your baby’s development is completely understandable, and you’re not alone. If you’re concerned about crawling or other milestones, start by observing and gently noting what you see. Trust your instincts. There is no harm in asking questions early. Speak with your pediatrician and consider requesting an evaluation.
Early intervention services are designed to help you better understand your child’s needs and explore supportive options. Capability is here to walk alongside families with professional, compassionate guidance. If you’re unsure about your baby’s development, reach out to learn more about early intervention services in Nevada and how we can support your family.