How to Encourage a Baby to Stand

Your child will probably become interested in standing between the ages of 6 and 9 months. Standing gives children access to a whole new world -- for better and for worse. Whether your little one is just starting to stand or needs some more practice to become steadier, you can encourage him by playing games and using developmental toys.

Things You'll Need

  • Furniture anchors
  • Push toy

Instructions

    • 1

      Anchor all large furniture to the walls to prevent toppling. As your baby becomes more interested in standing, he'll likely use furniture to pull himself up and cruise from place to place. Unanchored furniture, such as TV stands and dressers, could topple onto him and cause serious injuries. Prepare your home for your standing and mobile baby so you can help him stand safely.

    • 2

      Stand your baby while he's on your lap and allow him to bounce as you hold his hands. Moving up and down strengthens the leg muscles and improves the coordination he'll need to stand up on his own -- plus he'll love all of the action. A standalone bouncer can also achieve similar results, helping to strengthen baby's leg muscles while interacting with rattles, lights and other accessories.

    • 3

      Place toys where your baby has to reach and eventually stand to grab them. Ensure the furniture on which you place toys is safe to pull up on without falling such as a sofa. At first, your baby will probably try to grab toys using a tall kneel technique, notes the California State University, Northridge, Department of Special Education. From there, he'll navigate to standing to reach what he wants.

    • 4

      Invest in toys that allow your baby to stand and push. Push toys usually have a sturdy bar and wheels with a weighted base that balances your baby's weight and leverage. Just ensure you're nearby to catch your little one if he has a fall.

    • 5

      Place your little one on the ground and then grasp his hands as you gently pull him to a standing position. From this position, he might be interested in taking his first steps -- fully supported by you, of course. From the new vantage point your baby will be interested in exploring a new world of accessibility, but you'll likely need to support him before he's ready to stand on his own.

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