When Do Babies Start to Roll Over? Tips for Parents in Australia

You place your baby on the bed and step into the kitchen to grab a quick coffee. When you return, you wonder—what if your little one suddenly rolled over? Rolling is one of the first big milestones that shows your baby is getting stronger and more mobile.

But when does this milestone usually happen, how can you support your baby, and what safety steps should you take at home?

In This Article:

• At What Age Do Babies Roll Over?
• Signs Your Baby Will Roll Over Soon
• Types of Rolling Skills
• Tips to Help Your Baby Learn to Roll
• Safety at Home Once Baby Starts Rolling
• Beyond Rolling: Developmental Milestones
• Key Takeaway

At What Age Do Babies Roll Over?

Rolling over is often the first movement babies do all by themselves. Most babies start rolling between 4 and 6 months.

According to the Raising Children Network, every child develops at their own pace. Some may show early signs of rolling at four months, while others take a bit longer. By six months, most babies can roll from tummy to back and from back to tummy.

If your baby hasn’t rolled by seven months, it’s not always a cause for concern. But it’s worth mentioning at your next check-up or discussing with a child health nurse for reassurance.

Signs Your Baby Will Roll Over Soon

So, how can you tell your baby is close to rolling? You might notice these signs during tummy time:

• Your baby pushes up on their arms and straightens their elbows.

• They rock side to side, putting weight on one arm more than the other.

• They turn their head toward toys or voices.

• They reach for objects beside them.

These little movements show your baby’s core and arm strength are building—key skills they’ll need to roll.

Types of Rolling Skills

Babies usually learn to roll in stages:

1. Rolling from Tummy to Back
This often comes first because it’s easier. Babies push up with their arms during tummy time, then tip themselves over onto their back.

2. Rolling from Back to Tummy
This requires more coordination. Babies use their legs and core muscles to roll from back to front, usually by 6–7 months.

Sometimes babies pause at rolling onto their side before completing a full roll—it’s all part of the process.

Tips to Help Your Baby Learn to Roll

Rolling may look simple, but it’s a complex skill. Here are ways you can encourage your little one:

1. Give Plenty of Tummy Time

Tummy time is essential from birth. Place your baby on their tummy on a safe, firm surface. Use toys, books, or a child-safe mirror to keep them engaged.
More tummy time ideas: Pregnancy, Birth and Baby

2. Try Side-Lying Play

Letting your baby rest on their side helps build core strength. Offer toys within reach to encourage reaching and balance.

3. Help Baby Experience Rolling

Gently guide your baby through the motion of rolling—this helps them understand the movement. For example, bend one knee over the other and slowly roll them onto their side.

4. Encourage Reaching and Weight Shifts

Hold a rattle or soft toy just out of reach so your baby shifts weight from one arm to the other. This strengthens the muscles needed for rolling.

Safety at Home Once Baby Starts Rolling

Rolling marks the beginning of mobility. That means new safety challenges:

• Babies can suddenly roll off beds, couches, or changing tables.

• Always supervise them on elevated surfaces.

• Stop swaddling once they show signs of rolling—this helps keep sleep safe. 

Many parents also add extra safety measures around the home. One of the most practical is a bed rail.

Once your little one rolls, they might move across the bed faster than you expect. A secure bed rail can help prevent falls and give you peace of mind, especially during naps and overnight sleep.

👉 Explore My Duckling’s Bed Rail designed with solid wood and non-toxic finishes, created for both safety and style in Australian homes.

Beyond Rolling: What Comes Next?

Rolling sets the stage for bigger milestones:

• Sitting without support (around 6–9 months)

• Crawling (around 9 months)

• Pulling up to stand and cruising along furniture (9–12 months)

• First steps (often around 12 months, but it varies)

If you’re ever worried about your baby’s development, check in with your GP, child health nurse, or explore the Raising Children Network for expert advice.

Key Takeaway

Rolling is one of the first signs your baby is ready to explore the world. It usually happens between 4 and 6 months, and you can encourage it through tummy time, side-lying play, and gentle guidance.

But once babies start rolling, safety at home becomes more important than ever. That’s when products like a bed rail can make daily life safer and less stressful—so your baby has the freedom to grow, and you have peace of mind.