How to teach a toddler to walk
The age at which toddlers begin to walk varies because this skill is dependent on physical development, which differs from child to child. Toddlers need proper posture, a sense of balance and adequate leg strength to be able to stand and learn to walk. While children between 9- and 12-months-old are often physically developed enough to pull themselves up and stand or walk with support, the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates that 13 months is the average age when most toddlers begin walking on their own. If your toddler is already pulling himself up, there are several things you can do to enhance his development and help teach him how to walk.
Things You'll Need
- Socks
- Shoes
- Play table
- Push toy with locking wheels
- Toys
- Books
Instructions
Make sure your toddler̵7;s feet are properly equipped. This means leaving your child̵7;s feet bare as much as possible, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, if your child̵7;s feet are cold, keep them warm with socks or soft-soled, leather booties. If your child wears socks only, make sure they have rubber grips to provide traction. Walking outdoors requires shoes that are lightweight with flexible, non-skid heels. Keep in mind that shoes for toddlers should be ankle-height or shorter, as anything higher can impede proper movement and make learning to walk more difficult. Encourage your child to stand as much as possible. Do this by providing him with toys that will entice him to stand, such as a play table or a push toy with locked wheels. You can also place some of your child̵7;s favorite books or lightweight toys on the sofa or in the middle of a coffee table so that he must stand to get to them. The more practice your child has standing, the faster his leg muscles will strengthen for walking. Help your child practice walking. When your child̵7;s legs are sturdy enough to support her for extended periods of time and she begins moving herself around by grabbing on to furniture or the walls, assist her with moving her legs in a forward-walking motion. Stand a few feet in front of her and extend your hands out so she can grab them. Then, while she's holding onto your hands, guide her forward so she moves toward you. Alternatively, stand behind your child, holding her hands to steady her as she takes steps forward, allowing her to set the pace. Encourage your toddler to walk short distances on his own. A popular way to do this is to arrange support objects so that they are far enough apart that your child has to take a step or two to move from one to another. For example, place an ottoman 2 to 3 feet away from a chair instead of right next to it. You can also try holding a toy just out of your child̵7;s reach, and encourage him to get it. Or, sit 3 feet away from your toddler, and try to coax him to move toward you by tempting him with a favorite toy. Eventually, with enough motivation, your child will start taking unsupported steps. Have your toddler practice walking back and forth between you and someone else. When your child exhibits the ability to take a few unsupported steps, this strategy motivates him to go even further on his own. Sit on the floor, facing another person -- preferably someone who excites your child, such as an older sibling or your significant other. Four to 5 feet should separate you. Support your child as he stands in front of you and faces the other person. With enough encouragement, your child will eventually amble into the other person̵7;s arms. Repeat the process by having your child return to you. The more you utilize this strategy, the further your child will be able to walk on his own, and eventually, he will no longer need anyone to coax or catch him.
