Some of your older relatives or acquaintances may suggest you prop your baby on cushions to help them sit up sooner. Here is an answer to whether sitting up is beneficial for your baby.
Most babies can start to sit up between six and nine months of age [1]. All the parent has to do is create the conditions for the skill to develop.
- Allow the child to move around. Sitting is a big skill that is made up of many small ones [2]. First, the baby lifts their head, then their arms and legs. Muscles get strong, and they can finally sit! You can create as much support around the baby as you want or pull them up by their hands to a sitting position, but it’s not really necessary. That is a journey your baby will manage on their own, slowly but surely mastering small skills to conquer a bigger one!
- Do not rush things. At first, the baby will sit using their hands for support, like a little frog. You can help them by lightly placing your hand on their lower back while they search for balance [3]. You can also show them a toy to make them linger in this new position for longer. By nine months, two-thirds of healthy babies are sitting without support, while the rest manage the skill a little later [4].
Having your baby sit on cushions can even be harmful. First, restraining devices can limit mobility and inhibit development [5]. Secondly, it can pose a risk of suffocation if the baby falls asleep amidst a pile of pillows [6].
