Types of Baby Crawls

Crawling Styles

Crawling is defined as any form of prone progression, any way of moving in which the tummy is toward the floor. In fact, in one of her many studies on crawling babies, Karen Adolph, PhD, associate professor of psychology at New York University, observed 25 unique combinations of body parts used to propel a baby forward. Here are some of the most common styles.

The Belly Crawl

Also known as the commando crawl! About half of babies begin crawling by keeping their tummy against the floor as they move. Belly creepers usually begin crawling earlier than four-on-the-floor crawlers because they don't get up on their hands and knees, which requires greater strength and balance. Some babies use belly crawling as their only method of crawling until they learn to walk; other babies shift to the classic crawl before they start walking.

Playing With Baby: Get Moving

The Classic Crawl

Baby alternates arms and legs, getting the arm on one side to hit the floor at the same time as the leg on the opposite side.

The Bear Crawl

Baby walks on all fours, arms and legs unbent.

The Crab Crawl

Baby pushes with arms instead of pulls -- which has the unintended, and frustrating, consequence of sending baby backward.

The Leapfrog Crawl

Baby makes a bridge with his arms and legs and then thrusts forward.

The Roll

Some babies get so good at rolling that it becomes their primary way to get around.

Copyright &copy 2010 Meredith Corporation.