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Research-Backed Baby Exercises by Age

Evidence-based exercises for every stage of your baby's development. All independently reviewed by licensed pediatric occupational therapists.

“Movement isn't preparation for learning.
Movement IS the earliest form of learning.”

The science behind Baby Acrobatics

0-2 mo

Baby Exercises for Newborns (0-2 Months)

At 0-2 months, your newborn is building the foundation for all future movement. Gentle exercises like tummy time, leg cycling, and calming massage stimulate your baby's nervous system, relieve gas, and strengthen the neck and core muscles they'll need for rolling, sitting, and crawling later on.

Tummy TimeBicycle KicksGentle Chest Rhythm+7 more
3 mo

Baby Exercises at 3 Months

At 3 months, your baby is gaining head control and starting to engage with the world. Exercises at this stage build the core strength needed for rolling, introduce gentle acrobatic movements, and develop visual tracking and coordination. This is when structured daily routines become most impactful.

Flying BabyPull to SitPalm Presses+7 more
6 mo

Baby Exercises at 6 Months

At 6 months, your baby is preparing to sit independently and crawl. Exercises at this stage focus on weight shifting, trunk rotation, and the bilateral coordination that makes crawling possible. This is when the foundation built in earlier months pays off in visible motor progress.

Prone Weight ShiftsClock PivotsSitting Weight Shifts+7 more
12 mo

Baby Exercises at 12 Months

At 12 months, your baby is pulling to stand, cruising along furniture, and preparing to walk. Exercises at this stage build standing balance, develop the hip and leg strength needed for independent walking, and introduce advanced movements that challenge coordination and confidence.

Supported Standing PlayCrab Walk CruisingSquat-to-Stand Play+7 more

How a daily routine works

Every routine flows through 6 phases designed by pediatric OTs. 10 minutes. No equipment needed. Just you and your baby on the floor.

💞Connection
🌞Warmup
🧘Mobility
💪Strength
🎪Acrobatic
🌙Cooldown

Want personalized routines for your baby?

The Baby Acrobatics Blueprint includes:

  • 98 exercises with step-by-step video demonstrations
  • Personalized weekly routines for your baby's exact age
  • Safety guidance and milestone tracking
  • 5 ready-made daily routines (tummy time, gas relief, bedtime, and more)

Common questions

What are the best exercises for baby development?

The best exercises depend on your baby's age and developmental stage. Newborns benefit from tummy time and gentle massage. By 3 months, exercises like pull-to-sit and visual tracking build head control. At 6 months, weight shifting and pre-crawling activities are key. By 12 months, standing balance and walking readiness exercises take priority. All exercises should be age-appropriate, gentle, and supervised.

How often should I exercise with my baby?

Aim for one structured routine per day, starting at 5-6 minutes for newborns and building to 10-15 minutes by 6-12 months. Consistency matters more than duration. You can also incorporate movement throughout the day during natural play and diaper changes.

Are baby exercises safe?

Yes, when done correctly and age-appropriately. All exercises in the Baby Acrobatics program have been independently reviewed by licensed pediatric occupational therapists. Always follow your baby's cues, support their head and neck, and stop if they show signs of discomfort.

What is the difference between baby exercises and physical therapy?

Baby exercises are preventive and developmental -- they support natural motor development in healthy babies. Physical therapy is therapeutic and addresses specific developmental delays or medical conditions. Baby Acrobatics is designed for healthy babies but should complement, not replace, professional guidance if your baby has specific concerns.

Carissa Platt, OTD, OTR/LTaimi Koort, OTR/L

All exercises independently reviewed by licensed pediatric occupational therapists (OTD, OTR/L).

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