Rolling Tips for Babies: A Paediatric OTs GuidE

As a paediatric occupational therapist, one of the most exciting milestones I get to support families through is helping their babies learn to roll. Rolling is often one of a baby’s first big motor achievements, setting the foundation for future skills like crawling, sitting, and walking. It might seem simple, but rolling requires a coordinated effort between muscles, balance, and body awareness.

The Power of the Opposite Arm Hold: A Key Rolling Strategy

One of my favourite techniques to support babies in learning to roll is starting them on their tummy and gently guiding them over by holding their opposite arm (the arm furthest from the direction you’re rolling). For example, if your baby is lying on their tummy and you’re helping them roll to the left, you’ll hold onto their right arm and guide them gently over to the left.

This strategy is particularly beneficial because:

• It activates core and rotational muscles: By holding the opposite arm, you encourage the baby to engage their trunk muscles, especially those involved in rotating the torso, which are key for independent rolling.

• It promotes body awareness: The movement helps the baby understand how different parts of their body work together to achieve a goal. This is a key component of their sensory integration skills.

• It reduces frustration: By gently assisting the motion, your baby gets to feel what a successful roll feels like—this repetition builds confidence and body memory.

Try doing this slowly and with lots of smiles and encouragement. It’s not about rushing the movement, but about giving your baby the sensory and motor experience of rolling.

Other Helpful Strategies to Support Rolling:

Tummy Time!

Frequent tummy time throughout the day strengthens neck, shoulder, and back muscles, giving your baby the foundational strength they need to roll.

Use Toys to Encourage Reaching

Place a favourite toy just out of reach to the side while your baby is on their tummy or back. This encourages reaching and shifting weight, which are both precursors to rolling.

Support from the Hips

When your baby is lying on their back, you can gently guide their hips across their body to initiate a roll. This helps them learn how their lower body plays a role in movement.

Roll Together

Babies learn a lot through imitation. Lay next to them and model the movement yourself. Turn it into a game—rolling together from back to tummy and tummy to back.

Celebrate Progress

Every wiggle, weight shift, and partial roll is worth celebrating! Rolling often develops gradually, so cheering on the little steps keeps your baby motivated and engaged.

When to Reach Out for Support

If your baby isn’t showing interest in rolling by around 6 months, or seems stiff or floppy when moving, it’s a good idea to chat with your paediatrician or a paediatric occupational therapist. Early support can make a big difference!