Bringing Hands Together: Why This Milestone Matters and How to Encourage It

As a paediatric occupational therapist, I get so excited when I see babies begin to explore their hands—and even more when they start bringing them together to play with a toy. This seemingly small milestone is actually a huge step in developing coordination, motor planning, and bilateral (two-handed) play skills that are essential for later tasks like eating, dressing, and writing.

Why Is Bringing Hands Together Important?

When babies start bringing their hands to the midline (the center of their body), they’re beginning to:

• Explore and understand their body (body awareness)

• Coordinate both sides of their body to work together

• Develop core stability and balance

• Reach, grasp, and hold toys—a key foundation for play and learning

You’ll often see this around 8–12 weeks, with hands coming together during play or while exploring their body (hello, adorable moments of discovering their feet!).

Side Lying: The Secret to Hands-Together Play

One of my favourite tips to support this milestone is placing your baby in a side lying position. This means your baby is lying on their side—with a small rolled towel or cushion behind their back for support—and gravity is working with them, not against them.

Here’s why side lying is so effective:

• It brings the hands closer to the midline naturally, making it easier for your baby to see, feel, and bring their hands together.

• It reduces the effect of gravity compared to lying on their back, which can be challenging for babies with weaker core or shoulder strength.

• It encourages visual attention, as your baby can more easily look at their hands or the toy you’ve placed in front of them.

How to Set It Up:

1. Lay your baby on their side on a soft play mat.

2. Use a small rolled towel behind their back to help them stay in position.

3. Place a soft, lightweight toy (like a crinkle toy or fabric ring) between their hands or just in front of them.

4. Gently bring their hands together over the toy and let them explore!

Even just a few minutes a couple of times a day in this position can make a big difference.

Other Ways to Encourage Hands-Together Play:

• Use High-Contrast Toys: Young babies love black-and-white or brightly coloured toys. Hold one at midline to draw their attention and encourage hand movement toward the center.

• Hands to Knees or Feet: When your baby is lying on their back, you can gently guide their hands to their knees or feet, promoting awareness of midline and body exploration.

• Tummy Time With a Twist: In short tummy time sessions, place a toy directly at midline to encourage pushing up and reaching with both hands.

A Note on Development

Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. If you notice your baby isn’t bringing their hands to midline by around 3–4 months, or they consistently favour one side, it might be helpful to check in with a paediatric therapist for tailored support.