When Do Babies Start Walking?

A baby starting to walk is a milestone that every parent eagerly awaits. It is an important moment that implies the beginning of a new stage in a baby's development. Understanding the typical time for infants to begin walking can help ease parents' concerns about their baby's development. So let's start to learn when babies take their first steps in today's blog.

• When do babies start to walk?
• Signs baby will walk soon
• How to help baby start walking?
• What to wear when your babies start walking?
• Conclusion

When do babies start to walk?

What age do babies walk? It varies. Most infants usually begin taking their first steps between 9 and 12 months of age. However, it is normal for some babies to start walking a little earlier or later than this range. Factors such as muscle strength, coordination, and the individual development all can affect how long it takes for your baby to walk.

Significantly, most babies usually walk on their own two feet at around 18 months. So while there is a general time, it's important to remember that every baby is unique and will start to walk in their own time.

Signs baby will walk soon

How do I know if my baby is ready to start walking? Here are some signs that your baby is about to learn to walk:

Pulling up to stand:

When babies start pulling themselves up to stand using furniture or other objects around them, it's a clear sign that their leg muscles are getting stronger and they're getting ready for standing or walking. This pull-up action usually happens when your baby is 8 to 12 months old. You may find your baby grabbing the edge of a table or couch and lifting themselves up. Babies are eagerly exploring their new mobile ability.

Start cruising:

Once your baby can pull themselves up, they will usually begin to cruise along furniture. This means they can use the support of a couch, chair, or anything sturdy to help themselves move while standing. Babies practice their walking skills while having something to assist them to keep balanced. Cruising usually starts around 9 to 12 months of age, which is also a sign that babies are ready to start walking.

Unsupported standing:

As babies become more confident in their ability to stand, they will begin to free their hands and stand independently. They may only keep standing for a few seconds at first, but it's an important milestone. The unsupported standing usually happens when your baby is 9 to 12 months old.

Take a few steps:

As soon as your baby feels ready to stand on their own, they'll start taking small steps, which may seem more like toddling than walking at first. This usually happens around 11 to 13 months of age, although some babies may take their first steps a little earlier or later.

All of these signs indicate that your baby is ready to walk independently. Parents should learn how to help their babies to walk smoother.

How to help baby start walking?

Here are some strategies to help your baby start walking:

Encourage tummy time:

Encouraging your baby’s tummy time helps him develop the strength and coordination he needs to crawl, pull up, and walk.

Provide your baby opportunities for crawling:

Crawling is an important precursor to walking as it helps your baby develop upper body strength and coordination. Create a safe, open space for your baby to explore, crawl, and even walk freely. You can also put toys out of your baby's reach to encourage them to move and reach for things.

Support standing practice:

Encourage your baby to practice standing by providing opportunities for them to pull themselves up using furniture or other stable objects. Place babies’ preferred toys on a low table or a soft sofa to motivate them to stand and reach for them. Make sure the environment is safe and secure to prevent accidents.

Holding your baby's hand to walk

Once your baby starts to show interest in standing and taking steps, you can support them by holding their hand and guiding them as they walk. This will give babies a sense of security and help build their confidence during walking.

Use a walking toy or baby walker:

Walking toys or baby walkers can provide extra support and stability as your baby learns to walk. Choose products specifically designed for walking purpose and make sure they are age-appropriate and safe for your baby to use.

What to wear when your babies start walking?

When babies start walking, it's important to consider their comfort and safety when choosing their clothes.

Allows freedom of movement:

Such as soft and stretchy fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo fiber.

Avoid length of clothes are too long:

Too long or loose hems that could trip babies up as they toddle around.

Shoes with non-slip soles:

The shoes babies wear while walking need to protect their delicate feet and provide traction as they walk on different surfaces.

Products recommendations:

Baby rompers:

Rompers provide ease of movement and comfort. Rompers are one-piece outfits that allow babies to move freely without any restrictions. The stretchy fabric of rompers fit the natural movements of a baby's body, making it easier for them to crawl, pull up, and walk. Additionally, rompers typically help make diaper change quickly and conveniently.

Sleep sack with feet:

Sleep sacks with feet keep babies warm and cozy while they sleep, but having feet allows for more mobility when they're awake. Babies can move around more freely and practice standing and walking without feeling restricted by the sleep sack.

Additionally, sleep sacks with feet can help prevent slipping accidents that might occur if a baby tries to walk in a traditional sleep sack without feet. So, it's a convenient way to keep babies comfortable while learning walking skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the time of when babies start walking is varied and individualized as the little ones themselves. Parents can help their baby's walk better by offering encouragement and support.