Small Steps Online:
6-9 Months
Your baby is becoming more active, curious, and engaged with the world around them. From sitting up and exploring toys to babbling and responding to familiar voices — this is a stage full of discovery and connection.
Every moment you spend together is a valuable step forward — and we’re here to walk with you.
How This Module Helps Your Baby Thrive
Start Small Steps today and give your baby the best start, one step at a time.
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Module overview:
Gross Motor Skills
Between 6 and 9 months, your baby is gaining strength and control in their body. Gross motor skills at this stage include sitting without support, rolling in both directions, pivoting, and beginning to crawl or move toward things they’re curious about.
Fine Motor Skills
Your baby is starting to use their hands with more intention. Fine motor skills include reaching with both hands, transferring toys between hands, exploring objects by mouthing or shaking them, and beginning to use their fingers to poke or grasp smaller items.
Communication Skills
Communication is becoming more interactive! Your baby may babble with different sounds, imitate noises, and use their voice or facial expressions to get your attention. These are early signs of intentional communication.
Receptive Language
Receptive language development at this age means your baby is starting to understand the world around them. They may recognise their name, respond to familiar voices, and begin to understand common routines or words you use often.
Personal & Social Skills
Socially, your baby is becoming more responsive and expressive. They may smile at familiar people, enjoy peekaboo, show preference for certain caregivers, and begin to display separation awareness. These interactions help strengthen emotional bonds and social understanding.
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
Meet the #DownTeam
Ashley May
Ashley Rodgers is a dedicated physiotherapist based in Cape Town, South Africa, with a special passion for working with children. She graduated with a BSc in Physiotherapy from the University of Cape Town in 2017 and went on to complete her Community Service at the renowned Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. It was during her time there that her deep interest in paediatrics truly took root.
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.
Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.
Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
#DownTeam
Ashley May
Physiotherapist
@ashleymay_physio
@ashleymay_physio
Nikita Oosthuizen
Nikita is a communications specialist with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Communication Management from North-West University in South Africa, where she specialised in communication for social change.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
#DownTeam
Nikita Oosthuizen
Communication & Program Manager
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