Crossing the Midline Baby Exercises | Baby Chiropractor Sydney

Disclaimer: please note that we are using a doll - and this is perfectly imperfect. This video does not replace the benefit of seeking help from a paediatric health practitioner. This video is also general, for educational purposes only; and not prescribed for your unique needs. Unless you are a client of ours and we have prescribed it! Please reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any queries or concerns.

Crossing the Midline Baby Exercises | Baby Chiropractor Sydney

Crossing the midline exercises, which often involve movements where an arm reaches across the body to the opposite side or where the opposite arm and leg are engaged together (like in crawling or some baby movements), provide several benefits, particularly in the context of motor development and coordination.

HOW?

Using opposite hand and foot — stretch their limbs out and then bring them to the centre of their body touching right hand with left foot… repeat..
And swap sides!

Have fun with it!

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Here are some key benefits of Midline Exercises for Babies:

Improved Coordination: These exercises help develop bilateral coordination, which is the ability to use both sides of the body together. This is crucial for many daily tasks and sports activities.

Enhancement of Brain Connectivity: Crossing the midline stimulates the brain's hemispheres and encourages communication between the left and right sides of the brain. This can enhance cognitive function, including problem-solving and spatial awareness.

Increased Body Awareness: Engaging in crossing the midline movements helps individuals become more aware of their body parts and spatial orientation, which is essential for overall motor skills.

Development of Fine and Gross Motor Skills: These exercises contribute to the development of both fine and gross motor skills, involving larger muscle movements (like crawling or walking) and more precise movements (like grasping).

Boosted Motor Planning: The practice can help develop motor planning, which is the ability to conceive, plan, and carry out coordinated movements. This is important for functional tasks such as writing, playing sports, and other physical activities.

Support for Cognitive Development: Engaging in activities that require crossing the midline can promote cognitive skills, such as attention and focus, as individuals must mentally process and coordinate their movements.

Encouragement of Playfulness: These exercises often involve playful movements that can make physical activity more enjoyable for children, promoting a positive attitude towards movement and exercise.

FAQ :

Q: What does “crossing the midline” mean for babies?
A: It’s when your baby moves an arm or leg across the centre of their body, helping the left and right brain hemispheres communicate and coordinate.

Q: Why are crossing the midline exercises important?
A: They build core strength, balance, and coordination, which are essential for milestones like crawling, walking, and even later learning skills such as reading and writing.

Q: At what age do babies start crossing the midline?
A: Most babies naturally begin around 6–9 months as they start reaching, rolling, and crawling, but exercises can gently encourage the process.

Q: How can chiropractic care support crossing the midline?
A: Chiropractic helps ensure proper spinal and nervous system function, reducing tension and supporting symmetrical movement, which allows midline skills to develop more easily.

Q: Where can I find a baby chiropractor in Sydney?
A: Nomad Chiropractic in Mosman specialises in gentle, family-focused care to support babies, children, and parents at every stage of development.