#asktheexpert my 20 month old baby girl not walking without support

Question

Accepted Answer

At 20 months old, many children are walking independently, but development can vary. Here are some steps you can take and considerations to keep in mind if your baby is not yet walking without support:

### Steps to Encourage Walking

1. **Encourage Barefoot Walking:**
   - **Footwear:** Allow your child to walk barefoot indoors to help strengthen their feet and improve balance.

2. **Create a Safe Environment:**
   - **Safe Space:** Ensure your home is child-proofed to allow your baby to explore safely. Use soft mats or rugs to cushion any falls.

3. **Use Push Toys:**
   - **Supportive Toys:** Encourage walking with push toys or walkers that provide support and stability. Avoid using walkers with wheels, as they can be less safe.

4. **Encourage Standing:**
   - **Standing Practice:** Help your child practice standing by holding their hands or providing sturdy furniture for support. Encourage them to pull up to a standing position.

5. **Play and Interaction:**
   - **Motivation:** Engage in play that encourages walking, such as playing chase, using toys they can push, or placing toys slightly out of reach.

6. **Assistive Techniques:**
   - **Supportive Help:** Offer support by holding their hands or walking behind them with your hands close by for safety.

### Monitoring Development

1. **Observe Progress:**
   - **Developmental Milestones:** Monitor your child’s progress. Some children may take longer to walk independently but still develop other skills appropriately.

2. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **Professional Evaluation:** If your child is not walking by 18 months or shows other developmental concerns, consult your pediatrician. They can assess for any underlying issues or delays and provide guidance or refer you to a specialist if needed.

### Potential Concerns

1. **Muscle Strength and Coordination:**
   - **Development:** Delays in walking can sometimes be related to muscle strength, coordination, or balance issues. Your pediatrician can evaluate if physical therapy might be helpful.

2. **Physical or Medical Issues:**
   - **Health Check:** Ensure there are no physical or medical issues affecting your child’s ability to walk. Your pediatrician can check for conditions such as hypotonia (low muscle tone) or other concerns.

Every child develops at their own pace, and there is a wide range of normal when it comes to walking. Supporting and encouraging your child while providing a safe environment will help them develop this skill over time.