Are you eagerly waiting for the moment when your baby takes their first steps? Are you wondering what signs indicate that your little one is on the brink of walking?
Every baby is different, but there are some signs that can help parents prepare for this exciting moment. Read on to learn more about the signs that tell you your baby will walk soon and get some tips to encourage them to get on their feet.
Milestones and Signs That Show a Baby Will Walk Soon
Before discussing the signs, it’s important to note that all babies develop differently. Generally speaking, most babies start crawling when they’re between 6-10 months. Once they’re comfortable with crawling, they usually start exploring how to stand up and eventually take those first tentative steps around 12–15 months.
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When your baby is close to walking, you should start noticing signs that indicate they’re ready to get up and go, including:
- Pulling themselves up on furniture or toys. Once they master this skill, they may even be able to let go of their support object and stand on their own for a few seconds.
- Squatting down and bouncing in an attempt to stand up.
- Taking steps while holding onto something like your hands or the furniture.
- Cruising around furniture when supported by either one hand or two hands (this is slightly different from crawling as it requires more balance).
You might also start seeing signs of frustration if things don’t go as planned. This is normal, and the signs of frustration often indicate that they’re motivated to explore new ways to get around.
How to Encourage Your Baby’s First Steps
To help your baby practice standing up and taking their first steps, you can play some fun games. Try putting a toy or snack just out of their reach and encourage them to get closer by taking some steps towards it.
Another way you can practice is walking slowly with your baby while they hold onto your hands. Make sure their feet are firmly planted on the floor and have good balance before letting go. If they feel unsteady, let them know that it’s ok to stop and rest when needed. Most importantly, make sure there aren’t any obstacles in their way.
It’s also helpful to give them some open space and make sure their clothing isn’t too restrictive, as this can interfere with their balance and movement.
What to Avoid When Learning to Walk
When it comes to helping your little one get on the move, there are a few things you should avoid. Baby walkers allow babies to stand up while they scoot around, but they don’t actually help them learn how to take those first steps independently.
They can also be dangerous if your baby is close to any stairs or other hazards. It’s best to stay away from these items until your child has mastered walking on their own.
Red Flags Related to Walking
If your child is not showing signs of movement or walking by 12–15 months, it’s important to talk with your baby’s pediatrician.
Some other signs that may indicate a delay in development include:
- Lack of interest in exploring
- Difficulty sitting up on their own
- Sleep regressions
- Failure to meet other milestones such as rolling over, babbling, etc.
If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or healthcare provider.
Ultimately, learning to walk is an exciting milestone for both babies and parents. Witnessing signs of toddling in your little one can be a nervy but exhilarating experience. Don’t forget to document these momentous occasions with plenty of photos and videos; it’s sure to be remembered as a joyous time!This is an important time for your baby’s development and should be approached with care. If there are signs that show your baby will walk soon but you still have concerns, it would be best to consult the pediatrician. With understanding and patience, you’ll both make it through this exciting chapter together. Good luck!
