My First Tripod Sit

1. 1

   Arrange pillows or folded blankets into a supportive little seat for your baby.

2. 2

   Place your baby in the seat and hold them gently while they become familiar with sitting upright: “You’re sitting with support.”

3. 3

   After a short supported sit, remove one pillow or folded blanket. Your baby may wobble while trying to find their balance.

4. 4

   When all the cushions are removed, your baby may place both hands in front of their body to steady themselves in a tripod sit.

5. 5

   If they do not bring their hands forward, support the waist or back and help position the hands for balance: “Try putting your hands down.”

What to notice

• Uses their hands for support while maintaining a sitting position Gross Motor
• Looks toward you when beginning to lose balance Relationships with Adults

Tips

• Stay ready to support your baby’s body whenever they begin to lose balance.
• If your baby cries or appears uncomfortable, the practice may have lasted too long. Shorten the sitting time or try again another day.

Developmental benefits

• Movement: Sitting with support, adjusting to less support, and bearing weight through the hands gives your baby practice using large muscles, balance, and whole-body coordination.