Reaching out in all directions

Your baby's fine motor movements are gradually becoming more controlled. They are most likely better at coordinating movements in their arms and hands, which allows them to reach for objects. Each movement your baby makes increases brain connections – and your baby is learning at a rapid rate! 

Your baby may miss the toy most of the time at first, but with repetition, this will improve. Providing plenty of opportunities for your baby to reach and grab can help them to develop the fine motor skills they need. Initially, the majority of your baby's grasping attempts will be based on trial and error. Remember, each time they try to reach, they are making tiny improvements. 

Eyes and hands working together

Your baby might be starting to look at the object they're attempting to reach for. This gives their eyes and hands a chance to work together to help them in grabbing their target. To grab something, your baby must be able to focus on things with their eyes. Once they have mastered reaching for an object that is stable, they can then practise reaching for moving objects. Your baby must track the object and follow it as it's moving. 

Ideas for encouraging reaching and grabbing 

• Hang a mobile over their cot, pram or changing unit – you'll see the determination on your baby’s face. 
• Hold them while standing up to look at wind chimes, hanging baskets or handles. 
• Roll a soft ball so that your baby can track it and reach out.  
• Remember to use lightweight toys and objects. 

Let your baby try reaching from different positions

Your baby can practise reaching and grabbing in a wide variety of positions. 

They could be lying on their back with toys hovering over them. In this position, their hands are free to explore and stretch out.  

Reaching and grabbing can be encouraged during tummy time. Your baby will be able to take up the challenge of taking the object and moving it closer to them if you place it just inside their reach. 

Some babies like to lie on their side. Place a support behind their back and lay out toys around them, just as you do in tummy time. 

Your baby may be sitting on your knee, or be in your arms. Other people can join in with passing objects to your baby while they are with you.   

If you are passing objects to your baby, pause to check that they can see the object. This will give them a better chance of reaching out and grabbing it.