Babies most commonly crawl on their hands and knees, but there are various ways babies learn to move around, and not all babies crawl in the same way.
While the typical image of a baby crawling involves using hands and knees, many babies develop unique methods of locomotion as they explore their surroundings. These alternative crawling styles are perfectly normal and generally nothing to worry about.
Here are some common crawling styles babies might use:
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Hands and Knees Crawl: This is the classic crawl where the baby moves forward on their hands and knees, alternating limbs.
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Commando Crawl: In this style, the baby moves forward on their tummy, using their arms to pull themselves along.
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Bottom Scooting (Bum-Shuffling): Some babies propel themselves forward while sitting, using their arms and legs to scoot along on their bottom.
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Rolling: Some babies simply roll from one place to another.
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Bear Crawl: This involves walking on hands and feet with their knees and elbows straight, resembling a bear.
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Crab Crawl: Moving sideways, like a crab.
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Tripod Crawl: The baby uses one leg and two arms to move around.
It's important to remember that the age babies start crawling can vary greatly, with some skipping crawling altogether and going straight to walking. Every baby develops at their own pace.