Parentpedia

What Experts Say

Sitting, like so many infant milestones, is a skill that develops in stages. Learning to sit also requires plenty of practice on baby's part and lots of assistance from mom, dad, or caregiver.

A good clue that your infant is ready to try sitting? She can push up on her chest while lying on her belly, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. This usually happens around 4-5 months, and shows that your baby's chest and neck muscles are strong enough to begin supporting her in an upright position. But remember, she's got a few months to go before she'll be sitting solo. In the meantime, she'll need your help while she gives it a try.

Have her practice sitting when she's well rested. When you start, use your hands to support her, or try sitting in a relaxed crossed-legged position, and have your baby sit right in the center. Or prop her up with pillows (a nursing pillow is ideal for containing your baby since you can position the curve around her).

At first, even with assistance, she'll lean both arms forward (in what's called a "tripod" position) in an attempt to stabilize herself. Give her a few interesting toys to study while she gets used to seeing the world from this new point of view.

As she gets stronger over the next month or two, she'll be able to keep her back straighter for longer periods. And while she'll no longer lean forward, she'll still need to position her arms at either side to help her balance. If she uses one hand to grab a toy, don't be surprised if she topples to that side. Somewhere between 6-8 months, you'll find her able to sit without any help at all.