Standing But Not Walking, Now What?

"Is it normal that my little one is standing independently, but isn't walking yet?"

Answer: Absolutely! Independent standing prior to taking independent steps usually shows me they're working on the balance and coordination of the muscles on the front and back of their body to maintain them upright against gravity. It's a good thing!

However, there are also times that a baby will take steps BEFORE learning to stop and steady themselves in a standing position, and that's usually totally okay too! If you're noticing your little one struggling with independent standing balance, one of my favorite tips is to place them in standing with their back against something like the couch. Then, stand about one step away from them and encourage them to shift their weight towards you and return back to the starting position! This independent balance and rocking activity really encourages those same muscles to get firing and begin to work towards independence in those positions.

Hope that helps!

WANT MORE?

For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.

KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.