To get a baby to move, especially in the womb, several effective methods are commonly recommended:

• Lie down on the left side in a quiet, relaxed setting to increase blood flow to the placenta, which can stimulate baby movements.
• Eat or drink something cold or sweet, like cold juice, iced water, or a sweet snack, which may increase the baby’s activity due to changes in blood sugar levels.
• Talk, sing, or play soft music to the baby, as babies can hear and respond to sounds inside the womb.
• Gently tap, rub, or apply light pressure on the belly to provoke a response from the baby.
• Change physical position by standing, walking, kneeling on all fours, or reclining differently to encourage the baby to shift and move.
• Stay hydrated, as dehydration can reduce fetal movements.

If the baby is unusually quiet or movements have decreased significantly over several hours, consulting a healthcare provider is important to rule out any issues.

For babies outside the womb, encouraging movement involves activities such as tummy time, introducing toys to reach for, and creating safe spaces for exploration, which help develop muscles and coordination.