The complete guide for your baby's walking (birth - 1 year)

Most normal babies train for their first steps from the time they are born; he/she slowly develops muscle strength and coordination and starts off by first rolling, then sitting, crawling, then standing and walking. A lot of practice is needed for a baby to start walking; it is a major step towards his/her struggle to become more independent.

I have given below a rough guideline about the typical steps before a baby starts walking, though some babies may do so earlier than others. Some babies may walk as early as 9 months, others as late as 17 months. If you're concerned about your child's progress, check with his doctor.

Rough guidelines of how a baby starts walking:

When a baby is below 2 months, he/she has a step reflex; the baby move his/her legs as if one is walking when held in standing position. However this reflex disappears once he/she is 2 months.

Between the ages of 3 to 4 months the baby does mini push-ups; he/she lies tummy down and raises his/her chest and head off the ground by using arms for support. These mini-pushups help build the upper body muscles that are crucial for walking.

You will find that your baby at 5 months bounces up and down when held in standing position; this movement helps in building leg strength. He/she also starts to tripod by leaning forward on arms for support while seated.

Between 6 to 9 months your baby learns to sit without support; this is a major development to start walking because sitting without support requires head control, neck strength, balance and coordination. It is also found that some babies may skip crawling between the ages of 7 and 10 and straight start walking. It is also found that some babies walk while holding on to something and will soon take sliding steps while holding on to whatever's nearby for support.

There is a need for action if your 7 month baby does not sit while being supported by her hands or doesn't bear some weight on her legs when you hold her up. Consult a doctor.

Between the ages of 9 to 12 months, your baby will pull up to standing position holding on to a sturdy object like the leg of a table or sofa. He/she learns by practice how to do deep knee bends in order to sit after standing. He/she may stand unsupported for a few seconds and take one’s first step by holding your hands.

Happy mothering for a smooth baby walk!   

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