We use cookies so we can provide you with the best online experience. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Otherwise, we'll assume you're OK to continue. Accept and close
Send to Print
Thursday. 28 March 2024
Print Page(s)

Infants must develop skills to sit upright

By Jan P. Piek, PhD


In order to sit unsupported, the infant must achieve appropriate trunk and head control. By five months of age, most infants can sit unsupported but cannot sit upright. The trunk is supported over, or aligned with, the pelvis and legs, which form a relatively stable base of support. However, an infant at this stage (figure 4.3; the infant in this figure is 22 weeks of age) shows an exaggerated forward lean necessary to support the head.

Around six to eight months of age, the upper half of the body has gained adequate control to enable the infant to sit upright unsupported. This is an important achievement as it allows the infant to free her arms and hands for exploration, as can be seen in figure 4.4.

 

 





This is an excerpt from Infant Motor Development.


Website Page URL (Link) Reference:

http://www.humankinetics.com/excerpts/excerpts/infants-must-develop-skills-to-sit-upright?ActionType=2_SetCurrency&CurrencyCode=7

© 2013 Human Kinetics, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Return to article