Baby is on the Move: First Steps

Your baby’s first step is an exciting and anticipated milestone. So when can you expect your little one to put one foot in front of the other? It’s hard to say exactly. Babies develop at different rates, which means she’ll go at her own pace.

But in general, most babies take their first step somewhere between nine and 12 months. But if your baby has not taken a step by his first birthday, don’t worry. Some babies are content to sit it out for a little while longer. Plus, even after your baby takes his first step, it still takes a little while for him to master walking. Most babies are walking well by about 15 months.

How Your Baby Learns to Take her First Step

Your baby has been increasing her muscle strength, coordination and balance for a while now. She’ll need all those skills before she can take a step. Activities she has been doing including sitting up, crawling and pulling herself up to a standing position help get your baby ready to take a step.

Some babies follow a typical pattern when it comes to motor skill development. For instance, your baby might go from crawling to standing to cruising before she takes her first wobbly step. But not all babies are the same, and some do things their way. For example, it’s not uncommon to skip crawling and move right to standing. The important thing is that your baby is making attempts to become more mobile.

Although there is no need to rush your baby’s first steps, a little gentle encouragement doesn’t hurt. With your baby standing up, kneel in front of her, hold her hands and encourage your baby to take a step. By holding your baby’s hands, you help her maintain her balance. Keep trying this and periodically let go of one hand to help your baby work on her coordination and balance.

Eventually, your baby will decide the time is right to let go and take his first step without holding on to anything or anyone. Your baby’s first step is so exciting because it’s a big step towards independence. Once your baby takes her first step, it’s only a matter of time before she is jumping, climbing and running all around.

Keep in mind, your baby can get around faster than you think, so take a look around your home and make sure you have childproofed as needed. For instance, look for rugs or electrical cords your baby can trip on. Place baby gates at the top and bottom of the stairs to prevent your baby from taking a tumble if she decides to practice her climbing skills.

Written by MaryAnn DePietro @writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Ready, Set, GO! Encouraging Baby’s Walking

Hopefully, you have your camera ready when your little one takes his first steps. Walking is a big developmental milestone you may be eagerly anticipating.

When you baby walks is dependent on several factors, such as his muscle strength, coordination and temperament. For example, a high energy baby may be ready to get going sooner than a mellow, cautious baby.

Most babies start to walk between 12 and 15 months, but that is not set in stone. Try not to worry if your baby is taking her time learning to walk. She will walk on her timetable. But if you have any concerns, speak to your pediatrician.

Although babies walk at different ages, there are things you can do to encourage your baby to take that adorable first step. For example, make sure your baby gets plenty of tummy time from a young age. Tummy time helps strengthen your baby’s back muscles, which is essential for walking.

When your baby is strong enough to sit up, roll a ball back and forth to her. As she reaches for the ball, she moves forward and back and side to side. All these movements help her strengthen muscles and develop balance.

As your little one gets older, play games that encourage motor skill development. For example, get down on the floor and crawl around with your baby chasing him. This may make your baby move faster, and helps improves his coordination.

Of course, standing is a precursor to walking, so you can also help your baby develop this important skill. While your baby is sitting, hold his hands and pull him up to a standing position. Once your little cruiser gets to a standing position, he may not know how to get back down. Show him how to bend his legs to sit back down without taking a tumble.

Push toys can also help your baby get the hang of putting one foot in front of the other. Push toys, such as a pint-sized shopping cart or push truck help your baby develop balance and coordination. Look for a toy that has a wide base for support and won’t tumble over while your baby is holding onto it.

Consider skipping the socks and shoes indoors. It’s easier for your baby to learn to walk if her tootsies are bare. Your baby’s bare feet grip the floor better than when she is wearing socks. You may also want to avoid walkers since they may prevent upper leg muscles from developing properly, which delays walking.

Make sure you have updated your baby proofing since she’ll be on the move. Lastly, offer lots of praise and encouragement, and before you know it, you will be chasing a very quick toddler around.

Written by MaryAnn DePietro @ writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.