When Do Babies Start Catching Themselves When Falling In Sitting?

“When will my baby start putting their hands out when they are in sitting and falling?! We have so many bumps and bruises. I feel terrible!”

Answer: Let me just say first, it is SUCH a tough season from when they start sitting to when they start consistently getting hands out! I swear, pillows all over, a soft cushy surface, and ideally you right next to them are your best friend – and know it won’t last forever!

BUT that being said, let’s talk about protective reactions in sitting. Generally speaking, a child will begin demonstrating emerging protective extension FORWARD (meaning the ability to put their hands out to stop a fall) when they begin prop sitting on hands. It becomes more intentional and reaction generally around a month after independent sitting starts.

About a month later, they will begin to demonstrate protective reactions to the SIDE. This is also the time when they may begin experimenting with transitioning all the way to their belly on the floor, and/or into hands and knees.

Around a month after that, they will often begin demonstrating protective reactions BACKWARDS! All in all, it can take a while, BUT again, in the meantime, know that softer surfaces (like a cushioned mat), pillows, and/or a boppy if needed can all be really helpful!

Hang in there, it’ll all come together before you know it!

WANT MORE?

For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.

KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.