Parents long for the day that their baby makes the transition from swaddled infant to a walking and running toddler. As this milestone is highly anticipated, many parents eagerly watch and wait for their little ones to stand on their own two feet. For many parents, however, this moment won’t happen for a little while longer.
Signs your baby will start walking soon
In order for your baby to start walking, they’ll need to develop enough strength in their legs to hold their body weight. As walking requires a strong core, hips, and ankles, it will take time for their bodies to develop. Though some babies start walking early on in life, it isn’t something most babies will experience until they are nine-months-old. For others, it will be 18 months before they reach this milestone.
Waiting anxiously for your baby to start walking? Keep a lookout for any sign that your baby is exercising their neck muscles. During tummy time, your baby should be learning to roll over and will eventually sit up by themselves. At this point, babies will start to crawl and pull themselves to the point where they can stand.
Around 9 to 12 months, babies are typically developed enough to start “cruising”. Cruising refers to when a baby tests out walking. These first few steps are the baby’s way of learning to balance themselves on the couch, table, or whatever else is in sight. If your child has reached this stage, it won’t be long until they start walking independently.
Once baby starts cruising confidently, parents should be sure to monitor them closely. Keep watching; it shouldn’t be long before the baby takes their first steps.
Tips to help your baby walk
Parents that are hoping to give their baby an extra push in the right direction can help their baby learn to walk. Starting with tummy time, parents can encourage their baby to start rolling, sitting, crawling, and pulling themselves up.
Try the following tips to help your baby learn to walk:
Carry your child less frequently
Cuddling and carrying their little ones is something most parents love to do. However, holding a baby can delay them from reaching the walking milestone. If you keep holding your baby, they won’t be motivated enough to move on their own.
If you want to give your baby the chance to walk, make sure they have enough time on their own to develop their skills. Each day they have to explore, babies will be one step closer to hitting their milestones.
Stop using the baby walker
While baby walkers are often a parent’s best friend, using walkers too frequently will slow a baby’s learning process. If you want your child to start walking, consider avoiding walkers entirely</li>
Use a push toy
When a child is cruising with furniture, parents can use a push toy to help them walk with more support. Many of these toys have adjustable wheels than can be changed as your baby continues to develop.
As your baby gets older, they’ll naturally learn to walk. Have patience and encourage your child as they begin the journey to crawling, walking, and eventually running. Keep this guide in mind to support your baby during this developmental stage.
