Your baby turned five months. Congratulations! He is growing into an adorable little boy. He can now babble and also has a stronger neck. Interestingly he is a pro at putting his hands or toys in their mouth.
Unfortunately, he doesn’t roll over anymore. He started it at three months of age and then stopped out of the blue. I know you’re worried the baby stopped rolling from tummy to back. What could be the reason? Is it normal for a baby to start rolling over and suddenly stop?
Let’s find out
Baby Stopped Rolling From Tummy To Back- Why?
If your baby was rolling over but stopped, it could be because he’s discovering a new, more-interesting motor skill, has a developmental drag or requires more tummy time. His high fetal weight could make him stop rolling over for fear of falling. In some cases, the baby may forget how to roll over temporarily.
That said, don’t panic yet. Like adults, children have unique abilities and may not consistently achieve milestones as expected. Give him time, and when ready, he will show you signs.
5 Possible Reasons Why Your Baby Stopped Rolling Over
1. Body weight
Children with less weight are more flexible. If your baby is weighty, he may delay achieving motor skills, including rolling over. The weight may make him avoid making any movements. He might have given up along the way.
2. Forgetting
New developments are part of a baby’s life. Despite rolling over for some time, it’s possible your baby forgot how to roll from tummy to back. He may have lost interest, totally neglecting the development. Relax, this doesn’t mean he can’t do it again.
3. Learning new exciting skills
If you woke up one morning and noted your little one isn’t rolling over anymore, watch out to see a new skill about to come up. If your baby is preparing to achieve another motor skill, say doing push-ups, he may easily neglect to roll over for the time being.
4 .Developmental delays
While there’s a range within which babies achieve different milestones, some may not work within it. A child with a developmental delay may start doing something and stop midway or not do it at all. Consult your paediatrician if you’re concerned about your munchkin lagging.
5. They need some more tummy time.
Putting a baby on his tummy prepares his body, arms, and legs for motor development. If the baby doesn’t have enough tummy time, he may stop rolling over until ready.
Watching a baby accomplish milestones is the most rewarding feeling for any parent. You are excited to see him roll over for one moment, and then suddenly, you’re disappointed he has stopped.
It may not necessarily be due to a bad reason. If he doesn’t have floppy or rigid arms/legs and is progressing well in other areas, he’s just a baby. Be patient and supportive.
Encouraging Baby The Skill Of Rolling Over Again
Unless your pediatrician diagnoses a severe developmental delay, you can motivate your baby to roll over again using the below tips:
1. Focus on tummy time more
Put your baby on her tummy often to strengthen his arms, legs, and neck. Create a safe, spacious environment for him to play while lying on his tummy. According to Pathways, tummy time gives your baby a platform and position to try rolling over.
You may use a playmat or join him on the floor with the rest of your family. Once he feels ready, he will start rolling over again. Make tummy time a daily routine for more practice. Remember, the neck, arm, leg, and back muscles he uses at this time will help during crawling and sitting.
2. Use toys
Colorful non-toxic toys make learning enjoyable. While lying on his tummy or the side, surround him with attractive toys or books. While trying to reach them, he’ll naturally roll over.
3. Avoid/minimize using baby equipment.
Baby equipment such as car seats, bouncers, and baby swings make life easier for the baby and you. However, avoid them as they trap your baby, leaving him without ample space for movement. This may cause delays or regression.
4. Assist by putting him in a favorable position
Sometimes your baby may need some help. To make rolling over easier, put him lying on his side. You may gently push and pull him back if he’s trying hard but not succeeding.
5. Reinforce any achievement or attempt
In babies, mastering new skills takes hard work. Reinforce any progress by praising him – even when he fails. A smile, hug, and gentle touch may motivate him to do more.
6. Dress him in light, comfortable clothes
Non-bulky comfortable clothes such as onesies allow your little one to move quickly. Some experts suggest you leave him naked and free from diapers.
7. Avoid baby swaddles
Swaddles provide a warm womb environment but use them only during your baby’s early days. When the baby starts developing motor skills, don’t use them to avoid restriction. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against swaddling once an infant shows signs of rolling. The baby needs freedom to roll over safely.
Is Rolling Over An Important Phase?
Rolling over helps your baby in various ways:
- Rolling over strengthens muscles making it easy for your baby to move and push/pull up.
- It helps your baby develop balance and awareness.
- It enhances language skills- As your baby tries to follow instructions, for example, when you’re telling him to get his toys, he learns communication skills too.
When Should You Worry if Baby Not Rolling From Tummy To Back?
The majority of babies start rolling over gradually after some time. Others skip the milestone and move to crawling or standing – which is still okay.
While babies are different and could take different durations, when should you talk to a doctor?
1. If your baby doesn’t revert to rolling over at any age.
2. If your baby doesn’t roll over at six months of age.
3. If you notice stiffness or floppiness in your baby’s muscles. This could be a sign of significant medical conditions.
4. If your little one isn’t showing any progress in other aspects, including holding items with both hands.
A baby not rolling from tummy to back isn’t always a sign of abnormality. Be patient and observant, plus don’t give in to people’s pressure. If your doctor marks him as healthy, keep motivating him.
Wrapping Up
Rolling over is the first step before crawling and standing. If the baby starts rolling and suddenly stops, there must be a reason. It’s okay to worry if your baby stopped rolling from tummy to back.
He may need more tummy time, could be weighty, may forget how to roll over, or it could be a developmental condition. Your doctor can assess him and offer medical advice.
Nevertheless, frequently putting him on his tummy, using toys to make learning easy, avoiding swaddling, and praising every effort are ways to encourage your baby to roll over again.
All in all, don’t obsess over the issue. Do what you can and let your doctor guide you through.
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