Learning to Roll
Here's What To Do
1
Help me learn to roll! Most babies will learn how to roll from tummy-to-back first, and then back-to-tummy later.
2
Play a rolling game with me:
- Place me tummy-down on a small blanket or towel on the floor.
- Slowly raise one side of the blanket until I tilt to the side.
- Pause and see if I can complete the roll myself.
3
Encourage me to roll other times we play on the floor:
- Place me on my tummy and hold a toy where I can see it.
- Move the toy behind my back slowly, and see if I'll roll to follow it.
- If I can roll tummy-to-back, play the same game with me starting on my back.
4
Celebrate me when I complete a roll!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Give me a big hug before we begin.
E
Engage:
- "We're going to play a fun rolling game! I'm going to tip you in the towel… here you go! Keep rolling!"
- "Can you follow the toy? Here it goes! Roll over, you can do it!"
E
Encourage:
- When rolling to my back: help me tuck one arm in toward myself, which will help me tip to the side.
- When rolling to my tummy: If my arm gets stuck underneath my tummy, give me time to pull it out myself. If I'm still having trouble, gently tilt me away from the side that is stuck.
R
Reflect:
- Do I prefer to roll in one direction over another?
Not quite ready?
Practice lots of tummy time. This will help prepare me to roll over.
Ready for more?
When I'm on my tummy, place toys slightly out of reach on the floor. This encourages me to experiment with different movements to try and get the toys.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to roll over, first tummy-to-back, and later back-to-tummy.