How to Get Your Child Walking

Your little one will want to hold onto something as he learns to walk.

When the kids in playgroup start walking, the race is on and parents hope that their little one is going to be the next walker. Walking is a big milestone for babies and there is nothing that you can do if your child is simply not ready to walk. Some children just prefer to crawl or scoot for a long time. Still, there are some things you can do that will encourage your child to take his first steps.

Instructions

1. Build leg muscles by helping him stand. Even though your baby may be several months away from truly walking, you can help him to build up leg muscles by holding him as he stands in your lap or on the floor in front of you. He will probably bend his knees and push up.

2. Guide her to stand on her own with a little help from the furniture. Holding onto things like the couch or coffee table gives her independence and security at the same time.

3. Count how long he can balance on his own. When your child is sturdy as he stands and holds onto furniture, help him stand up and then let go so that he can balance on his own. Make this a game, cheering him on as he does this.

4. Hold her hands as she takes her first steps. This allows her to learn the motion of walking, while still feeling safe and secure.

5. Encourage him to walk with push toys. Certain toys are designed to help children walk. They have a handle and a sturdy base with wheels.

6. Encourage your child to take her first steps toward another loved one. While you're holding your baby, have daddy or grandma sit just a few steps away. Stand the baby up facing toward this person and have the person call out to the baby with open arms. Hopefully, baby will start walking.

Tips & Warnings

• Babies learn to walk better when they are not wearing shoes.

References

• BabyCenter: Developmental Milestone -- Walking
• "Parents"; Ways to Help Baby Learn to Walk; Kaelin Zawilinski