Independent and proficient sitting is a skill that is typically developed around 9 months of age. Your child may start to demonstrate prop sitting (sitting with hands on ground) as early as 5 months, but may only be able to balance for a couple of seconds. In order for a baby to start sitting independently they need to have a few things, the ability to bear weight through their arms, strong hips, and head control. Supported sitting (with parental support, not in a sit-me-up or bumbo) can start as early as 6-8 weeks of age. Below are some strategies to work on supported sitting to help get your child ready for independent sitting.Â
6-8 Weeks:
Sitting on a decline wedge helps place the child’s hips in proper alignment. Then have your hands placed around the child’s hip/trunk and encourage upright movement. You can also have them try to follow a toy, your voice, or anything motivating to help work on head control.Â
2+ Months:
Supported sitting with elbows supported (cupped in your hands) allows for weight bearing through forearms. Hold their arms slightly below shoulder level and you can move their body in circles to help work on chin tucks and head control, as well as arm tucking, which are all precursors for rolling.Â
3+ Months:
Start working on sitting with your child facing you. This allows them to start visually tracking. Supported sitting will also help stretch the hips and back and help prepare them for proper sitting posture and alignment.Â
Around 5 months your child may start trying to sit with their arms supported on the floor (aka prop sitting). You can start a small table to help them keep balance, but as they become more steady start lowering the surface or placing their hands on the floor.Â
5+ Months:
You can start adding in toys to encourage forward, backward, and lateral protective reactions (sticking the arms out when they lose balance to catch themselves). This will also encourage improved core and hip strength needed for independent sitting.