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After your child’s first year has passed, a significant milestone occurs in the development of young children: they begin to take their first steps. This moment is one of the most exciting for parents, as it provides the child with a profound sense of security and a new awareness of their surroundings.
Although every child is unique and develops at their own pace, the typical age for children to start walking is between 12 and 14 months. Some children may begin earlier, while others may take longer. However, there is no need for concern or attempts to rush the child into walking if they are not ready. It is only advisable to consult a specialist if a child is unable to stand independently by 18 months and has not begun walking by that time, to rule out any developmental issues.
Readiness to Walk
Children are generally ready to walk when they can stand without assistance. Their first steps may be unsteady as they learn to control their posture; they often move with their legs apart and feet turned outward, and they may fall if anything obstructs their path. As they continue to develop over the coming months, they become increasingly stable and balanced, typically mastering walking around the age of two.
Development of First Steps
Between 7 and 9 months, children typically begin to crawl, which is a precursor to walking. However, some children may skip crawling altogether and go straight to walking.
By 10 months, their legs become stronger, and if supported by the arms, they can lift one leg off the ground and bounce slightly. At 11 months, most children can walk if their hands are supported or if they lean against stable surfaces.
From 12 months onward, children start walking independently, although they may still bump into obstacles along the way. By 18 months, they generally have improved control over their movements, allowing them to change direction and walk in various ways, including turning and walking backward.
By 24 months, they are fully capable of walking and often start transitioning to running.
Encouraging Walking in Young Children
While we cannot force children to walk, we can support them as they begin to take their first steps:
- Encourage Floor Time: Allow them to spend ample time on the ground to motivate them to try standing and walking.
- Create a Safe Walking Space: Designate a favorite area for them to practice walking, equipped with supportive furniture like boxes or tables (without sharp corners). Place engaging items on these surfaces to encourage reaching and grabbing.
- Encourage Interaction: Once your child learns to stand, sit nearby with open arms, inviting them to come to you.
- Celebrate Achievements: Reward and celebrate every small progression to help build their confidence and encourage them to keep trying.
- Support Their Movement: When your child begins to walk while leaning on objects, gently hold their arms and encourage them to move forward, gradually reducing your assistance as they gain confidence.
- Introduce Challenges: Place soft obstacles, such as cushions or rubber pieces, in their path to create new challenges and stimulate their movement.
- Utilize Walkers Safely: Walkers can be beneficial in aiding mobility around the house. Ensure the walker is sturdy and does not tip easily, and always supervise its use.
By fostering a supportive environment, you can help your child navigate this exciting stage of development and gain confidence in their walking abilities.
