Head, shoulders, knees, and toes. That is the direction that early development takes place. Babies develop from head to toe and from their trunk to their fingertips and toes. Babies will develop neck strength before core strength and they will hold their head up, then sit up, then begin to use their hands. Head to toe and trunk, outward is the direction that their neurological system is myelinating or “forming” so that is the direction of the skills that we will see.
It is important to know this when we look at baby’s milestones and skills. Babies have to establish neck control, then core stability before they will be able to crawl and eventually walk.
You can help your baby develop these necessary foundational skills by allowing her a lot of tummy time and practice in vertical positions to hold her head up. Vertical baby carriers are great for this!
References:
Aamodt, S. & Wang, S. (2011). Welcome to Your Child’s Brain: How the Mind Grows from Conception to College. Bloomsbury, NY.