Abbott Global

Baby Steps – Mama Watch Me Walk

Based on a poll of 819 Abbott parents | Start Date: 20^th January 2009 | End Date: 12^th February 2009

Babies walk when they are ready to do so! Some start as early as 9 months. Some others get to their feet only by 16 months.

Every little baby's first step is a miracle. It takes a combination of motor and sensory skills to begin to saunter on little feet. As with many other things, genetics and the in-born will to learn and explore drives baby to want to move independently on two feet.

By about the first birthday, baby's legs get longer and stronger; back and shoulder muscles strengthen to support baby's upright gait; baby's head is now smaller in proportion to the rest of the body than at birth; and baby learns to co-ordinate the movement of hands and legs. All these changes help little one's balance on one foot at a time, to begin to toddle around upright on little feet. And, it takes hours and hours of practice before your little child can stride with confidence.

Here is what lies ahead for your baby's little feet...

15 months: Baby stoops and stands. 18 months: Toddler can run. 24 months: Child can kick a ball, walk up and down stairs. 36 months: Child climbs steps using alternate feet, jumps with two feet. 48 months: Child balances well on one foot and can hop. 60 months: Child is able to skip.

Here's what you can do to help baby find his/her feet:

Little Tom let go of the coffee table, gingerly put one foot forward, wobbled. Then, he pulled the next foot forward, wobbled a little more, stood still for a moment, and then, plonked unceremoniously onto the floor. The first step! Mom and Dad were beside themselves – clapping, and praising little Tom. Tom laps it all up. He grabs on to the table beside him and repeats his brave new routine. Soon, Tom is toddling on unsteady feet but, he is definitely walking.

Let baby lie on his/her tummy and wriggle around, to learn to lift his/her head.
Allow baby time and space to move independently. Do not confine baby to a cradle, sarong, or play pen for long periods of time.
Ensure your home is safe. Protect table edges and corners with cushioned protectors. Remove unstable furniture and table covers. Cover electrical sockets with protective covers. Use baby safe locks on low cupboards and safety gates at stairs.
Allow baby to walk around on bare feet at home as long as it is safe. He/she will be able to grip the floor better with bare toes.
Do not provide a 'walker' as they are unsafe and may even delay your child's ability to learn to walk.
Buy flexible, comfortable and fitting shoes for outdoor trips. Make sure that there is a half inch gap in front of baby's toes.
To encourage baby to walk, stand in front of your little one and encourage him/her to walk to you.
Once baby has taken his/her first step, hold his/her hand and allow him/her to walk ahead.
Baby will have a few minor spills as he/she learns to walk. Do not express loud dismay or shock. Pick your baby up, hug to reassure. Be positive and encouraging and soon, he/she will be walking with confidence.

Click here for poll results to "When did your baby start walking?"

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