Walking Milestones
Bobo Team • All you need to know • 3 min read
One of the most anticipated milestones in a baby's development is their first steps. Watching your baby learn to walk is an exciting and memorable experience. Understanding the stages of walking development and knowing what to expect can help you support your baby through this important phase.
When Do Babies Start Walking?
Babies typically start walking independently between 9 and 18 months, with the average age being around 12 months. However, it's important to remember that each baby is unique and may reach this milestone at their own pace.
Stages of Walking Development
-
Sitting Up (Around 6 Months): Before walking, babies need to develop core strength and balance. Sitting up without support is one of the first signs that your baby is building these muscles.
-
Crawling (6-9 Months): Crawling helps babies develop coordination and strength in their arms and legs. Some babies may skip crawling and move directly to pulling up and cruising.
-
Pulling Up to Stand (9-12 Months): Babies start pulling themselves up to stand using furniture or other supports. This stage is crucial as it helps them practice balancing on their feet.
-
Cruising (9-12 Months): Cruising involves walking while holding onto furniture for support. This helps babies develop the coordination and confidence needed for independent walking.
-
Standing Without Support (11-13 Months): Babies begin to stand without holding onto anything. This is a strong indicator that they are getting ready to take their first steps.
-
First Independent Steps (11-18 Months): Most babies take their first independent steps between 11 and 18 months. These initial steps may be wobbly, but with practice, they will gain more balance and confidence.
Signs Your Baby Will Walk Soon
-
Pulling Themselves Up: Frequently pulling up to stand using furniture.
-
Standing Without Support: Able to stand independently for a few seconds.
-
Cruising: Moving along furniture while holding on.
-
Crawling: Efficiently crawling or moving around on hands and knees.
-
Increased Confidence: Showing interest in moving and exploring their environment.
Encouraging Walking
-
​Create a Safe Environment: Ensure that your home is baby-proofed. Remove sharp objects and secure heavy furniture to prevent accidents.
-
Use Push Toys: Push toys can provide support and encourage your baby to practice walking. Avoid using baby walkers, as they can be unsafe and delay walking development.
-
Offer Support: Hold your baby's hands and help them practice walking. Gradually reduce the support as they gain confidence.
-
Encourage Barefoot Walking: Allow your baby to walk barefoot indoors. This helps them develop balance and coordination by feeling the ground beneath their feet.
-
Praise and Encourage: Celebrate your baby's efforts and progress. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
While there's a wide range of normal when it comes to walking milestones, you should consult your pediatrician if:
-
Your baby isn't walking by 18 months.
-
Your baby isn't showing signs of readiness, such as pulling up to stand or cruising.
-
You have concerns about your baby's overall motor development.
Conclusion
Walking is a significant milestone in your baby's development, marking the transition from infancy to toddlerhood. By understanding the stages of walking development and providing a supportive environment, you can help your baby take their first steps with confidence. Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, so be patient and enjoy this exciting journey.
Sources
-
WebMD. (2024, January 24). Baby Milestones: When Your Baby Starts to Walk. https://www.webmd.com/baby/when-does-a-baby-start-walking
-
Cleveland Clinic. (2021, July 22). When Do Babies Start Walking? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-do-babies-start-walking
-
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2021, October 08). Your guide to postpartum health and caring for your baby. Government of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/safe-sleep-your-baby-brochure.html
-
HealthLink BC. (2022, April 29). Your child's development from birth to 3 years. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/your-childs-development-birth-3-years
-
Lancaster General Health. (n.d.). When should your baby start walking? What to expect. https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/motherhood/the-first-year/when-should-your-baby-start-walking-what-to-expect
This information is provided for entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
Want to know more?
DOWNLOAD THE APP
