Are you eagerly awaiting your baby’s first steps? It’s a major developmental milestone that many parents look forward to. Whether your little one is just starting to support themselves or already expert standers, there are some telltale signs that walking is just around the corner. Let's delve into the details and help you prepare for this exciting moment.
When Do Babies Start Walking?
Before we dive into the signs, it’s important to know when babies typically start walking. According to pediatricians, babies can begin walking anywhere between 9 and 18 months. Each child is unique, and this milestone can vary widely from one baby to another.
6 Signs Baby Will Walk Soon
Throughout their first year, babies progress through a series of milestones that lead up to walking. These include rolling over, sitting up, and crawling. As they get closer to taking their first steps, you’ll notice some specific signs indicating they are about to walk. Keep your camera ready to capture those first official steps!
1. Pulling Up
One of the earliest signs your baby is ready to walk is when they start pulling up to stand. According to Dr. Jennifer Shu, a pediatrician with Children’s Medical Group in Georgia, babies begin pulling up on furniture around 8 months. This phase can last a few months before they take independent steps. Make sure your home is baby-proofed as they start exploring this new skill. For safe and fun exploration, consider our Plush Animal Rockers.
2. Practicing Standing
As part of pulling up, your baby may begin to practice standing. They might only stand for a second or two before falling, but this is a crucial part of learning to walk. Walking requires motor skills, balance, and confidence, which develop through trial and error. Check out our Baby Toys to support their standing practice.
3. Cruising
Cruising occurs when your baby takes tentative steps while holding onto furniture. This helps them build balance and coordination. Some babies cruise for months, while others quickly progress to walking. Encourage cruising by gently holding your baby under their armpits or providing a push toy (ensure it's safe and stable). For more insights on baby milestones, read our blog on Soothe a Teething Baby.
4. Fussiness
Babies may become fussy and less tolerant when reaching new milestones. Dr. Ruben Espinoza from Banner Medical Group explains that this fussiness could be due to the cognitive effort required for these developmental leaps. Patience is key during this phase, as fussiness might signal that walking is near. Help soothe your baby with our Premium Wooden Baby Teething Set.
5. Sleep Changes
Babies experience various sleep changes during their first two years. Dr. Mona Amin notes that some babies might sleep more or less as they approach milestones like walking. If you notice significant sleep disturbances, discuss them with your pediatrician to ensure everything is on track. For comfortable sleep, explore our Diaper Bags and Totes collection for all your baby essentials.
6. Increasing Confidence
As your baby gains confidence in standing and cruising, they’ll start to balance on their own and move from one object to another. This growing independence is a clear sign that walking is imminent. Ensure your home is childproofed, as some babies quickly progress to climbing. Support their confidence with our Exquisite Baby Bath Toy Photography Gift Set.
Encouraging Your Baby to Walk
- Create a Safe Environment: Remove sharp objects and secure furniture to provide a safe space for your baby to explore.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your baby with smiles, claps, and words of praise.
- Play Walking Games: Sit a few feet away and encourage your baby to walk towards you.
- Allow Barefoot Walking: Walking barefoot helps your baby develop balance and coordination. For fun walking games, check out our Baby Strollers.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
If your baby isn’t walking by 18 months, consider consulting with a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues. While late walking can be normal, it’s important to ensure there are no developmental concerns.
Conclusion
Every baby takes their first steps at their own pace. By understanding the typical timeline and signs, you can support and encourage your baby’s walking journey. Celebrate each small step and remember that this is just the beginning of many exciting milestones to come.
For more tips and products to support your baby’s development, visit To Little Ones. We offer a range of educational toys and activities designed to help your child grow and thrive.
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