Walking: A Major Milestone for Toddlers
Walking is one of the most significant milestones for children around this age, and throughout the coming year, you’ll see considerable improvement in their walking skills.
As your child’s mobility increases, so does their ability to explore areas that were previously out of reach. It’s essential to take a look at your home from a child’s perspective and update your childproofing efforts to match your toddler’s growing abilities.
How Is My Child Moving?
While some babies may take their first steps around their first birthday, most children begin to walk within the months following their first year.
Children who are just learning to walk are often referred to as «toddlers» because they move with an unsteady gait, keeping their legs wide apart and hesitating between each step. Their movement may seem jerky as they shift from side to side, cautiously moving one foot forward, then the other.
About six months after those initial steps, toddlers usually develop a more mature gait. They start to hold their hands by their sides rather than out in front for balance, and their feet begin to move more like walking, transitioning from heel to toe.
During this period of practice, it’s common for toddlers to take a few tumbles. While you can’t prevent every fall, you can minimize the risk of injury by ensuring your child only explores safe areas, away from sharp furniture corners and other potential hazards.
After a few months of walking, your toddler will likely become more confident and begin to tackle new challenges, such as taking steps backward, picking up and carrying objects, and walking while pulling a toy behind them.
By the time they reach 2 years old, most toddlers can run, kick a ball, and even walk up the stairs.
How Can I Encourage My Toddler?
To support your toddler’s development, provide plenty of opportunities for them to explore and play. Take walks around your yard, neighborhood, or visit a local playground. At home, create a simple obstacle course with pillows or boxes and encourage your child to walk, climb, and crawl through it. Introduce a few balls for practicing kicking and throwing.
As toddlers become more adept with their hands, consider offering toys and craft supplies that help develop fine motor skills, such as:
- Paper and crayons
- Sculpting dough
- Stacking toys that can be built up and knocked down
- Simple puzzles
When Should I Call the Doctor?
Child development generally follows a certain pattern, with early skills serving as the foundation for later abilities. However, the timing of these developments can vary widely among children.
It’s important to consult your doctor if your toddler isn’t meeting certain milestones:
- By 15 months: Unable to take a few steps alone.
- By 18 months:
- Cannot walk without holding on to something.
- Cannot climb on and off furniture like a couch or chair.
- Does not attempt to scribble.
- By 24 months:
- Cannot walk up stairs (with or without help).
- Cannot run.
Not reaching these milestones doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem, but it’s always a good idea to discuss any concerns or questions about your child’s development with your doctor.