Learn the signs your baby is ready to walk, from pulling to standing up to independent steps. Support their journey confidently.
DR Samantha (Jr)
Watching your baby prepare for their first steps is a magical (and slightly nerve-wracking) experience. One moment they’re just rolling over; the next, they’re pulling themselves up with all the determination of a mountain climber. As parents, it’s exciting, heartwarming, and yes, a little terrifying as you’re officially entering the “no break for you” phase!
Here’s a guide, with tips, to help you understand your baby’s walking journey while running after them.
At around 8–9 months, you’ll spot your baby grabbing onto furniture, walls, or even your legs to pull themselves up. Don’t be surprised if they use the sturdy dining table or the corner of the divan as their makeshift gym equipment.
What to Do:
| Parent Insight: Once my baby grabbed a bedsheet to stand, and down came the pillow, quilt, and everything else! Lesson learnt: tuck things out of their reach. |
Once your baby learns how to stand, they’ll start practising like an Olympic event. Arms out, legs wobbling, and a face full of concentration—it’s adorable and a little hilarious.
Make It Fun:
Use these tips to encourage your baby to take their first steps:
| Tip | How It Helps |
| Tummy Time | Builds core strength, preparing your baby for the effort of standing and walking. |
| Safe Spaces | Baby-proof your home (cover sharp edges, tuck away electrical cords). |
| Handholding | Offer your hand when they need extra support—be their cheerleader! |
| Outdoor Play | Let your baby feel the grass underfoot; it’s a natural, safe surface for practice. |
| Balancing Toys | Push toys or walkers help them gain coordination (A steel kitchen dabba works as a DIY option too!). |
Cruising is when your baby starts using furniture, walls, or even your unsuspecting pet as support while they take tentative steps. This phase typically happens between 9 and 14 months.
Parent Checklist:
Keep the floors clutter-free (no scattered toys, shoes, or rogue utensils).
Cheer them on—it’s like having your little cricket fan taking their first run!
Some babies walk right after cruising, while others take their sweet time. Either way, don’t rush them. Walking is as much about confidence as it is about muscle strength. Celebrate every small milestone— a first wobble or a full step.
| When Will Your Baby Start Walking? Most babies begin walking between 9–15 months, and many achieve independent walking by 18 months. |
And yes, once they start walking, brace yourself for the chase. Those tiny legs can be surprisingly fast, especially when heading straight for the one thing you baby-proofed!
Here’s how you can help build the foundation for walking:
1) Encourage Reaching
Place your baby’s favourite toy slightly out of reach to motivate them to stand. Support their hips while they reach to develop the core strength needed for independent walking.
2) Create Distance with Confidence
Instead of holding their hand, use a toy as a “connection link” between you and your baby. For example, a stuffed animal can be used as a balancing prop. This builds confidence and enhances mobility while helping them stay steady.
3) Sensory Play for Coordination
Involve your baby in activities that strengthen their grasp and hand-eye coordination. Playing with building blocks, kneading soft dough, or rolling chapati atta can improve their motor skills.
4) Challenge Their Balance
Once your baby stands, encourage them to turn away from their support. Hold up a book or toy to grab their attention, prompting them to balance independently.
As your baby’s body gears up for walking, you might notice some unusual behaviour:
Every milestone is worth a little celebration, but transitioning from crawling on all fours to walking upright? That’s practically a human revolution! Of course, when your little one starts walking, they won’t exactly be runway-ready. Here’s how you can support your tot during this wobbly (and utterly adorable) phase:
| Action | How It Helps |
| Praise | Celebrate every attempt with claps and cheers—it boosts their confidence. |
| Soothe | Comfort them after falls with hugs; it teaches resilience. |
| Hand Guidance | Help them take steps by offering your hand or letting them hold your dupatta or saree. |
| Safe Environment | Ensure the space is baby-proofed, with soft surfaces to cushion falls. |
Every child develops at their own pace. The average age for independent walking in babies is 12 to 18 months, but many don't. Consult your paediatrician if your baby does not show developmental milestones like crawling or walking. Here are some of the most common reasons for late walking in babies:
Your baby’s walking journey is a mix of joyful milestones and a few tumbles. Be patient, celebrate their efforts, and remember that every child progresses at their own pace. Consult your paediatrician with any queries, and they will guide you.
And when they finally take those first unassisted steps, prepare for your cardio routine—because those tiny feet will keep you on yours!
FAQs
Usually a baby starts walking by their first birthday, at 12 months. However, this differs from baby to baby. While some may begin as early as 9 months, others may start as late as 16 months.
Yes. One of the most remarkable things about children is their ease in naturally learning basic skills. Through their everyday activities, they learn to walk, talk, think, and perceive things around them.
Unfortunately, no. Baby walkers or jumpers do not help your baby achieve this developmental milestone sooner. Instead, they may delay the process. Crawling, pulling up, and standing are best experienced in a natural environment. They help babies walk, enhance their cognitive skills and sensory development, and strengthen body muscles.
Babies with access to more outside time, like playtime in the garden and assisted walks, tend to get more practice walking. It helps them walk sooner and more confidently.
Even with delayed walking, toddlers tend to manage on their own. But if your baby at 18 months cannot walk, consult a paediatrician.
