Late Walker? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Be Worried

My gal just started walking on her own at 16 months. We’ve spent months coaxing her, holding her hands and trying to get her to take a few steps. She wasn’t ready and continually fell over at every opportunity. We not sure if we should be concerned or not, as our son began walking at about 11 months.

What we learned was when children begin to walk can be anytime between 7-16 months.

What we can do at parents is create opportunities for babies to flex their growing physical skills. Places for babies to pull themselves up and then reach and pull themselves between two objects.

Between my two kids, I also found that footwear is crucial. At home, we allowed them to go barefoot. When out and about, thin and flexible shoes are great first choices, brands like Robeez work well.

You can also be your babies best cheerleader. Grab their hands and walk slowly an help them find their own balance. As they become steadier, try to get them down to holding just one hand or one finger. Encourage your baby to move between parents, or an enterprising brother.

Do you have any tips for encourage your late walker that have worked?