When do babies start learning to sit, and how can I train them effectively?

From the moment babies are born crying, their world starts with exploring while lying down. With the steps of growth, little ones begin to attempt turning over, crawling, until one day, they show a desire to sit upright, even though wobbling at first and finding it hard to stand independently. To assist babies in smoothly transitioning to this new stage, timely training in sitting becomes particularly important. Normally, babies around four months old can briefly maintain a sitting position with adult assistance; by six months, they can sit steadily on an adult’s lap, although still need hand support for independent sitting; around seven months, they can sit independently for a period. Moderate training not only promotes the healthy development of the neck, back, and muscles but also marks an important milestone in the baby’s growth.
For a four-month-old baby, you can enhance core strength through interactive games. Facing the baby, gently encourage and guide the baby’s arms from lying down to sitting, maintaining for a moment before slowly releasing, repeating this a few times. Or support the baby’s waist with both hands, gently guide them to stand and then ease them into a sitting position, similarly repeating several times.
By five months, in addition to continuing previous exercises, you can attract the baby’s attention with colorful toys in front of them, encouraging them to lift their head, straighten their chest, and independently support their body to touch the toys. Initially, you can use the sofa back or mom’s body as a support, helping the baby adjust to a sitting position, ensuring the surrounding environment is safe, and there are enough soft pads to prevent falls.
By around six months, most babies can sit independently, and at this point, placing some toys in front of them allows them to enjoy playing while sitting.
By combining the above methods with the baby’s actual development, gradually guide them to learn how to sit and stand, carefully observe, adjust training methods timely, and every mother can gradually accumulate a set of parenting experiences suitable for their own baby through daily companionship. Remember, patience and love are the most precious support for babies’ growth.