Reaching becomes more intentional
Stretching toward objects with clearer purpose
By The Millie's Team · Parenting Notes
Around week twenty-one, your baby's reaching is starting to look more deliberate. Instead of waving in the general direction of a toy, they are aiming, adjusting and trying again.
What is happening
Hand-eye coordination is improving. Your baby can now see a target, plan a movement and follow through with their hand. The result is not always tidy, but it is becoming much more purposeful than the early swiping of a few weeks ago.
Is this normal
Yes. Some babies reach with one favoured hand, others use both equally. Both are normal at this age. Hand preference does not usually settle for a long time yet.
What you may notice
- Stretching with one hand toward a chosen toy
- Adjusting the hand mid-reach
- Holding on for longer once they grab something
- Bringing reached objects to the mouth
What helps right now
- Offering a small selection of easy-to-hold toys
- Sitting your baby with support so the hands are free
- Placing toys just within reach during play
- Letting them practise without too much help
What to expect next
Over the next few weeks, reaching usually becomes more accurate and two-handed play starts to appear. Passing a toy from one hand to the other often follows shortly after.