MY BABY HASN’T STARTED WALKING YET!

MY BABY HASN’T STARTED WALKING YET!

 

 

Before they can walk, babies need to develop the strength and coordination to maintain an upright posture on their own. They also need to be able to bear most of their weight, at least momentarily - on one foot.

 

Babies often start walking around 12 months old, but this could certainly happen earlier or later. You can help them move and groove no matter what stage they are at with walking. But the keyword here is stage. Babies don’t go from sitting to walking overnight.

 

There are many milestones you’ll likely hit along the way — standing supported, standing independently, cruising, first wobbly steps, and full-on walking. Meet your baby where their abilities are. Work on their strengths and playfully address their weaknesses. That said, learning to walk takes time. Resist rushing the process.

 

1. Baby-proof your space

 

Encouraging mobility means that they’ll be into anything and everything in their path. Baby-proofing will protect them from injury and probably give you both some added confidence along the way.

Here is a link with some tips: Baby Proofing Tips & Must-Haves! | Susan Yara

 

2. Reaching & Cruising

 

Basically, babies need strong core muscles to support standing and walking. Always encourage them to reach for toys on the ground to practice moving up and down and all around. Cruising furniture like sofas and coffee tables will get them to work the muscles in the hips and thighs.

 

3. Pushing Anything

 

When choosing a push toy, you’ll want to make sure it’s sturdy and provides enough resistance on whatever type of flooring you have. Push toys allow your baby to gain some independence while still having added “dynamic support” they need as they move through the stages of walking. They also offer fun activities to encourage movement in other ways, like squatting and reaching.

 

Avoid pushing your baby to walk.

Your child may show some signs they’re ready, but it can take a long time to get everything coordinated. Celebrate the small successes and meet your child at their ability level when trying to help them reach the next big milestone!

 

Ayushi Lakhotia Patania (Educator)