Most babies start taking their first steps between nine and eighteen months, but every child develops at their own pace. Some may crawl first, while others skip straight to standing and walking. There's no right or wrong way—just whatever works for your little one.
What can you do to help your little one learn to walk?
One of the first signs of your baby being on there way to their first steps may be crawling but don’t worry if they decide to take a different route. Babies will employ many different techniques, from rolling around, to crab walking, to scooting. Some little ones never crawl and go straight from standing to walking. There’s no right way to do it, just whatever works for your little one.
You can encourage your baby to start walking by placing a toy just out of their reach, then moving the toy a little bit further away each time. This stimulates their curiosity and gives them an incentive to move. But remember that each baby learns at his or her own pace, so be careful not to frustrate your child if they don’t get it right the first time.
As your child becomes more mobile, they'll likely protest being confined and crave exploration from dawn till dusk. With the right precautions in place, you can foster their curiosity and independence while ensuring their safety.
What do you need to do to baby-proof your house?
As your baby begins to explore their newfound mobility, it's crucial to baby-proof your home to create a safe environment for them to roam freely. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare:
- Guard Sharp Corners: Cover the sharp corners of furniture with plastic guards to prevent injuries from tumbles and bumps.
- Secure Furniture: Remove unstable tables, especially those with glass tops, to prevent them from toppling over onto your little explorer.
- Install Stair Gates: Use sturdy stair gates to block off stairs and steps, reducing the risk of falls.
- Socket Covers: Plug in socket covers to prevent curious fingers from poking into electrical outlets.
- Remove Hazards: Keep houseplants, heavy items, and small objects out of reach to avoid choking hazards and injuries.
- Secure Cupboards: Use clips to lock up cupboards containing household substances to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Watch for Trailing Cords: Tuck away cords and cables to prevent tripping hazards.
- Invest in a Sleeping Bag with Feet: Consider using a sleep bag with openings for little feet to allow your early walker to move freely while still keeping them snug during sleep.
It’s an exciting time for a parent once your little one is pitter-pattering around the house - enjoy every moment!
