Side Sitting & Reaching Baby Exercises | Baby Chiropractor Sydney

Disclaimer: this advice is general only and isn't specific to you and your child's needs unless we’ve specifically prescribed it for you. It's intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns please check in with us (if you’re a client) or with your local health practitioner if you’re not.

Side Sitting and Reaching is a fantastic way to help your baby build strength and stability to crawl.

Note the position of the legs and keep in mind you may need to reposition the tucked leg if it gets stuck.

The goal is to aid hip mobility, encourage the upright posture, and help with the transition from being in the sitting position to all 4s and back.

Pre-Crawler Home Exercises - Side Sitting and Reaching

Here are a few simple home exercises you could do with your baby to help build strength, mobility and prepare them for crawling.

HOW:
- Sit baby with left leg in front; and right leg so the knee is in front and foot is behind the bottom. So they’re inn a scissor type position.
(NOTE - don’t force this position - it has to be easy to put them into this position. If you’re struggling to create the setup please check in with us or your local paediatric health professional.)
- Have a toy off to their side so they have to/want to stretch out to reach it
- Support them through the hips
—> Increase the challenge by: Changing toys to increase the amount of time they will tolerate it; move the toys further away
* Always do both sides.

Please remember these milestones take time. And just like it takes an adult time in the gym to build strength or learn a new skill, as does a baby. Make it fun ( for you and them) and just try and find a way to incorporate it into what you already do in your day… so it’s not a chore.. just intentional play!

And as always — your mother’s intuition is the best guide. If you feel like it’s not right, it probably isnt’. If you feel like you might need some help then ask!

FAQ:

Q: What is side sitting in babies?
A: Side sitting is when a baby sits with both legs bent to one side. It strengthens the core and hips while preparing for crawling and standing.

Q: How do reaching exercises help development?
A: Reaching across the body improves shoulder mobility, balance, and brain-body coordination, supporting milestones like crawling and walking.

Q: When do babies start side sitting?
A: Many babies begin side sitting around 7–9 months as they transition from sitting to crawling and pulling to stand.

Q: How does chiropractic care support side sitting and reaching?
A: Chiropractic helps improve spinal and nervous system function, easing tension and promoting symmetrical movement for easier milestone progression.

Q: Where can I find a baby chiropractor in Sydney?
A: Nomad Chiropractic in Mosman offers gentle, family-focused care to support your baby’s posture, milestones, and overall development.