Although your baby will not be walking until he is near his first birthday, the skills and development required begin shortly after birth. The development of walking is a gradual process that progresses as your baby increases his strength and coordination. It is important to be familiar with milestones that will help him learn to walk and know how to encourage his development.
Birth to 6 Months
Your newborn may not be walking for several months, but she is gaining strength in her legs and learning some important skills. Shortly after birth, she may push against a hard surface with her legs. This is a reflexive action that you may notice if you stand her up on your stomach or chest, notes BabyCenter. By about 5 months of age, she will be able to bounce up and down with her legs while you hold her or while sitting in an activity center. Sometime before 6 months, she will also be able to roll over or possibly even crawl, all of which progresses her toward walking.
6 to 12 Months
Shortly after 6 months of age, your baby will be able to crawl. This new mobility puts him even closer to walking. Around 8 months, BabyCenter states that he may be able to pull himself up to stand. Around 9 to 10 months, he will be able to go from standing to sitting. Shortly after, he may be able to stand alone, bend down to pick up a toy or walk while holding your hand. Around 12 months of age, you may see him take his first independent steps or start walking while holding on to furniture.
12 to 18 Months
Shortly after 12 months of age, your baby may be walking alone. She may enjoy pushing and pulling toys around. Her confidence and balance will continue to improve, and BabyCenter states that she may be a steady walker by the time she is 18 months old. Since every child is different, your child may not follow the time table exactly. As long as she is progressing with her skills, give her time to develop at her own pace.
Encouraging Development
The Mayo Clinic suggests creating a safe environment for your baby to explore. This will allow him to safely use his new skills and increase the strength needed for walking. To help make his environment safe, place sturdy gates near stairs and padding on sharp corners. Anchor furniture to the wall, and place locks on cabinets. Provide him with toys that he can push and pull, and give positive feedback when he reaches a new milestone.
Recommendations
In some cases, your baby might walk with his feet turned inward or outward. These types of gait abnormalities typically improve on their own, but KidsHealth from Nemours suggests that you talk to your child’s doctor if her walking does not improve or she appears to be in pain. If she is not walking as soon as other babies her age, it does not necessarily indicate a problem with her physical development. Talk to her doctor if you are concerned about her walking skills.
