Watching your baby take their first steps is an exciting milestone. Every child develops at their own pace, so try not to compare your little one with other children of the same age.

Before they start walking independently, your baby will gradually build the strength, balance and coordination they need through milestones such as sitting, crawling, pulling themselves up and cruising along furniture.

When do babies start walking?

Babies learn to walk at different ages. Some may take their first independent steps around their first birthday, while others may start earlier or later. What matters is that your child continues to make progress with their movement and development.

How to encourage your toddler to walk

Give them plenty of floor time

Give your baby plenty of opportunities to move and explore safely. Floor time helps them strengthen the muscles they need for sitting, crawling, standing and eventually walking.

Encourage them to stand

Once your baby begins pulling themselves up, place favourite toys on a stable surface within reach to encourage them to stand. Always stay nearby and make sure the furniture they use for support is secure.

Help them practise cruising

Cruising is when your baby holds onto furniture and moves sideways. Arrange safe, stable furniture so they can practise moving from one place to another while holding on for support.

Hold their hands

When your baby is ready, hold both of their hands and let them practise taking a few steps with your support. As their balance improves, you can gradually give them more independence.

Let them go barefoot indoors

When it is safe to do so, allowing your child to go barefoot indoors can help them feel the floor beneath their feet as they practise their balance and coordination. Shoes are mainly needed to protect their feet when walking outdoors.

Make it fun

Encourage your little one with smiles and praise as they practise. You can sit a short distance away and encourage them to come towards you, but avoid putting pressure on them if they are not ready.

Creating a safe space for walking

Once your baby becomes more mobile, take another look around your home from their point of view. Keep floors clear of objects they could trip over, secure unstable furniture, cover sharp corners where appropriate and keep stairs safely blocked off.

When to seek further support

Children reach developmental milestones at different times. If you are concerned about your child’s movement or walking development, or they seem to have difficulty using one side of their body, speak to a doctor or healthcare professional for advice.

For more guidance and tips, explore the Karihome blog.