As a mom, you will most likely experience that beautiful feeling of watching your little one drift into a cozy sleep. Personally, it feels so precious whenever my little niece falls asleep in my arms. Watching your newborn sleep is not only cute, but is also a way to ensure your newborn is safe while she sleeps.
When it comes to your newborn’s sleep, you might have noticed your newborn rolls to side when sleeping. What’s behind this adorable movement, and should you be concerned? Let’s get into when you can expect your newborn to roll, safe sleep habits, and when it’s okay to let them sleep on their side!

Key Takeaways:
- Newborns hit milestones at their own pace, but most newborns will start rolling around 3-6 months.
- Establishing safe sleeping routines can prevent incidence of SIDS in newborns
- Check out our actionable tips for promoting safe sleep!
Table of Contents
When do Babies Start to Roll?
As your baby grows bigger, you may start to notice new habits and patterns particularly in your baby’s movement. Babies start to roll from tummy to back and back to tummy but how soon they do this depends entirely on your little one. Here’s what I like to call the roll-call timeline:
- Tummy Time Triumph (Around 3-4 Months of age): Most babies begin their rolling escapades during tummy time. As those tiny neck and arm muscles gain strength, your baby might surprise you with their first baby roll from tummy to back.
- Back to Belly Ballet (4-6 Months of age): Around the 4 to 6-month mark, the tables turn, and your baby might start rolling from their back to their belly. This marks another exciting milestone in their quest for mobility.
Remember, every baby is unique and will reach milestones in their own time. Some may start rolling a bit earlier, while others take their time. It’s all part of your baby’s unique rhythm of development. If you are concerned about your baby not meeting milestones please reach out to your medical provider. Early intervention is always best.
What is the Newborn Curl?
You may have heard of the newborn curl. It is that precious posture many babies naturally adopt, bringing their little knees up toward their chest and keeping their tiny arms tucked close. It’s like a cozy reminder of the snug space they recently occupied in the womb.
This adorable curling-up behavior is a reflex that’s present from birth. In the womb, babies naturally assume a fetal position, and this reflex continues outside as a way for them to feel secure and protected. It’s like a comforting echo of their time in the womb, creating a sense of familiarity and warmth.
You’ll likely notice your little one curling up during sleep or when they need a moment of comfort. It’s a natural and instinctive movement that showcases the incredible adaptability of newborns to their new environment.
What are the Common Signs of Newborn Rolling?
Signs to know that your little one is on her path to rolling includes:
- More time spent on their tummy: If your baby is starting to spend more time on their tummy during play, it’s a good sign they’re building the strength needed for rolling.
- Your baby starts to lift her head and chest: Your little one might begin lifting their head and chest during tummy time, a precursor to the rolling motion.
- Your baby starts to turn her head side to side: Notice your baby turning their head from one side to the other while lying on their back? This is a step toward rolling over.
- Your baby starts to kick her legs: Those adorable leg kicks during playtime can also be a sign. Your baby is discovering how to use their limbs to initiate movement.
- More eager to move around: If your baby seems intrigued by the world around them and attempts to explore by shifting their weight or reaching for objects, rolling may be on the horizon.
As your little one gears up for this important milestone, it’s essential to create a safe environment. There are some controversial opinions about safe baby sleep, but we will share the best safe sleep advice for your baby’s first year of life. Ensure the crib and play areas are free from any loose bedding or items that could pose a risk or be suffocation hazards and always keep a watchful eye during playtime. Sleep-related infant deaths can be preventable.
What are the Dangers of Newborns Sleeping on their Side?
Newborns often find comfort in different sleeping positions. Side sleeping might seem cozy, and at times, babies may naturally turn to this posture or stomach sleeping. However, letting your newborn sleep on her side or stomach has its risks and they are:
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): The most significant concern associated with side sleeping is an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing babies on their backs to sleep as it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Breathing Challenges: Side sleeping can sometimes lead to compromised breathing, especially if a baby accidentally rolls onto their stomach. This position may hinder the free flow of air, increasing the risk of respiratory issues. Babies have a lower risk of choking while laying on their backs.
This can be scary for a lot of new parents. The last thing you want is anything to happen to your baby. You may wake up in the middle of the night and find your baby sleeping on their side or stomach. Whenever you find your baby in an unsafe position try to gently reposition them onto a back sleep position. Learning to roll is a natural part of their development and as they grow they will develop stronger neck muscles and upper body muscles to support their head and prevent suffocation when they sleep. Until they do please always try to assist them to reduce the risk of a sleep-related death.
What Position is Best for my Newborn to Sleep in?
The According to the American Academy of Pediatrics the best and safest position for your newborn to sleep in is on their back.
The AAP Guidelines for Safe Sleep
To promote safe infant sleep and reduce the risk of SIDS, the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests the following guidelines:
- Sleeping on their back: Always place your baby on their back for naps and nighttime sleep, as it is the safest sleep position.
- Sleeping on a firm surface: Use a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib or bassinet. Always check the Consumer Product Safety Commission to ensure there have not been any safety events or recalls on baby products you are using.
- Clear the Crib: Keep the sleep area free of soft bedding, crib bumpers, toys, and loose items that could increase the risk of suffocation.
- Share the Room, Not the Bed: Room-sharing without bed-sharing is recommended for the first six months to a year, as it is the safest place for your newborn to sleep.
How Can You Prevent Your Newborn from Sleeping on their Side?
Newborns can sometimes roll onto their side unintentionally. Here are some tips to prevent this:
- Try swaddling: Swaddling helps keep your baby comfortable while they are laying on their back. It also reduces the risk of your baby accidentally rolling to the side. If you choose to swaddle, ensure it’s done correctly. Use a swaddle that allows for movement in the hips, and stop swaddling when your baby starts showing signs of rolling.
- Try using a sleep sack: If your baby’s not a fan of the good ol’ swaddles, a sleep sack can be a great alternative for them to ensure they are snug and cozy while laying on their back.
- Ensure your baby’s sleep surface is firm: Soft beddings are not recommended for newborns as they can increase your baby’s risk of rolling over to the side while sleeping.
- Encourage more tummy time: Encourage tummy time during awake hours to strengthen your baby’s neck and shoulder muscles. This helps reduce the risk of accidental rolling during sleep.
While side sleeping or stomach might seem appealing, as it can often reduce the startle reflex and keep your baby asleep longer, it’s crucial to prioritize back sleeping for newborns. This simple practice significantly reduces the risk of SIDS and promotes a safe and healthy sleep environment.
When Can Newborns Safely Sleep on Their Side or Stomach?
The general recommendation is to place your baby to sleep on their back up to 1 year of age. However, like we discussed above every baby is on their own developmental timeline. If your baby is consistently and purposefully rolling from back to stomach and stomach to back most pediatricians will be okay with them sleeping on their stomach or side.
Consult with your child’s healthcare provider to determine what is best for them. But typically if your baby has developed the strength to roll consistently and on purpose they have the strength to move their head and neck if needed while sleeping to reduce the risk of SIDs.
Final Thoughts
Newborns are masters of finding their comfort zones, and rolling to the side is often a sign that they’ve found a cozy position. It could be their way of adjusting to the surroundings, discovering what feels just right for a good night’s rest.
Lots of babies I have encountered tend to instinctively roll to the side while asleep and that is completely normal. However, it’s essential that you ensure a safe sleep environment for your baby.
As much as it stings to disturb your little one while they sleep, I recommend that you always place your newborn on their back to sleep to reduce the risk of them rolling over to their bellies and prevent complications such as breathing problems and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Nancy M.D. is a health practitioner, pediatrician and medical writer, who is dedicated to fostering awareness, and lending a helping hand to humanity at large.
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