This setback in your tot’s usual snoozing routine is often connected to new skills she’s picked up during the day. Walking may also be imminent if your baby is going through a sleep regression.
And if your cutie is walking like a pro while pushing a handled toy with wheels, she’ll likely be ready to let go soon! Other soon-to-walk signs you might spy include better balance from your baby and the ability to stand upright for longer (which means greater strength). You’ll know walking is in the near future if your baby has already tried one or more of the above learning stages. What are some signs that your child is almost ready to walk? Cruising: The last learning stage before walking is often cruising, which means your baby is making steps while upright and holding on to a piece of furniture (or your leg or hand).Or your tot might slither commando-style on her belly. Scooting: Rather than crawl or creep, some babies slide along on their bottoms by pushing off with their arms.Creeping: Similar to crawling, a baby who creeps may pull herself forward with her arms, which are stronger than the leg muscles at this point, and drag the rest of her behind.Some babies start crawling by rocking on their hands and knees. Crawling: Watch for this classic hands-and-knees movement to take place between 7 and 10 months.
Here’s a look at the stages your baby may pass through on the way to actual walking (remember it’s completely normal to skip some or all of these phases): Learning to walk is a process, of course, and each baby is different in his or her approach. This way, her victory lap will seem that much sweeter. Sure, there are ways you can lend her a helping hand (see below), but rather than focus on the finish line, embrace the baby steps along the way. Your toddler will eventually learn to walk - but on her timetable, not yours. And some kids are more cautious and only want to take a step when they’re positive they won’t tumble others are daredevils and will dive right in - literally. A high-energy baby will probably strut her stuff sooner than a mellow, happy-to-sit baby. Some of it may be in her wiring: Your little one may follow in her parents’ (early or late) footsteps. Most children don't take independent steps until well after their first birthdays (most children are walking well by 12 to 15 months) but if your child is not walking by 18 months, check in with your provider.
When early cruisers make their first attempts at letting go of that piece of furniture they’ve used to stay upright, it might mean that you’ll witness some of those first toddling steps. Babies often take a few early steps once they’ve graduated from pulling up to cruising (or walking by holding on to the couch, coffee table or ottoman) around month 9 or 10. Some children start to walk before they are 1, but many others take those initial steps after their first birthdays, usually around month 14, on average. Ready to chase your cutie around? Here’s when babies and toddlers usually start walking, signs your child is getting close to walking and ways to encourage her every step of the way.