Cruising is a movement pattern, it is a developmental milestone in preparation for walking, running and other upright positions.
Once babies learn to stand, they want to explore their new upright position, so they start moving side to side with the aid of furnitures and fixed objects around them.
Cruising starts at about ten and twelve months of age after leaning to stand. As the baby gets used to bearing weight on his legs, he begins to rely less on his hands for support.
Practical Tips To to Encourage Cruising
- Babies are more likely to practice cruising in a safe environment so place them in a safe and hazard free environment. Be sure that the objects around them are stable objects like furnitures. Place pads on the edges and corners of hard surfaces such as tables.
- For effective cruising, keep the feet of babies bare. Wearing shoes or socks can restrict the foot movement that happens during cruising.
- Entice the baby to get on the move. You can use favourite toys to encourage him to cruise. For instance, sit on the opposite side of the couch with his favorite toy and get his attention to move towards you.