Learning to Sit
Here's What To Do
1
Once I have great control of my head and neck, help me learn how to sit independently by supporting me through the following stages of sitting.
2
First, help me sit with support:
- Sit me on your lap and hold my hips steady. See if I can sit without leaning back on your chest.
- Place me inside a C-shaped nursing support pillow, or inflatable swimming tube, or propped with pillows in the corner of the couch. Stay next to me since I can topple over quickly.
3
Next, help me sit while I lean on my hands:
- Let me practice sitting on the floor, and help position my hands on the floor in front of me. Put pillows around me in case I fall over.
- Sit on the floor with me between your legs while we're looking at a book. Let me lean my back into you at first, then decrease your support as my balance gets better.
4
Finally, help me practice sitting independently:
- Encourage me to reach for toys with both hands while I sit.
- Gradually increase the length of time I practice sitting by myself.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Give me a snuggle before we begin practicing sitting.
E
Engage:
- "Let's practice sitting! Tia's right here if you need me."
- "Can you try to reach the toy? You can do it!"
E
Encourage:
- Help me balance by putting my legs in a "butterfly" position with my legs out in front, knees bent, and the soles of my feet touching.
- Make sure I spend plenty of time practicing sitting outside of baby seats or activity centers. Baby seats don't help me develop balance and strength in the way I need to be able to sit on my own.
R
Reflect:
- What stage of learning to sit am I in right now?
Not quite ready?
Give me lots of chances to practice tummy time. Tummy time helps build my head and core strength so that I'll be ready to sit.
Ready for more?
Help me learn how to transition into a sitting position from lying on my tummy or my back. When you see me trying to move into a seated position, gently guide me and support me with your hands.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to sit independently, without leaning on their hands, for extended periods of time.