#asktheexpert my baby is 13 months and his weight is10 kg and he is not walking yet properly what should I do

Question

Accepted Answer

It's normal for babies to start walking at different times, usually between 9 to 18 months, so your baby being 13 months old and not walking yet is still within the range of typical development. However, there are a few things you can consider to support your baby in developing walking skills:

1. Give Them Opportunities to Practice:

Encourage your baby to practice standing and walking by giving them opportunities to move. You can:

Support your baby by holding their hands while they stand or walk with you. Place toys just out of reach so your baby has to take a few steps to reach them. Allow your baby to explore different surfaces, like carpet or grass, to help them gain confidence. 2. Tummy Time:

Ensure your baby is getting enough tummy time during the day. Tummy time helps strengthen the muscles in the neck, shoulders, arms, and core, which are important for standing and walking.

3. Barefoot Time:

Let your baby practice walking barefoot, as this can help improve their balance and coordination. Walking barefoot gives them a better sense of the ground beneath them and helps strengthen their leg muscles.

4. Encourage Crawling and Cruising:

If your baby isn't crawling or cruising (moving while holding onto furniture), encourage them to do so. These movements are important building blocks for walking. You can:

Place toys in areas where your baby can reach by crawling or cruising around furniture. 5. Check for Any Physical Issues:

Although it's common for babies to walk at different times, if you have any concerns about your baby’s motor skills, it might be helpful to consult a pediatrician. They can check for any issues with muscle tone, coordination, or developmental delays.

6. Use Walkers or Push Toys Cautiously:

While some parents use baby walkers or push toys to help babies walk, they should be used cautiously. These can sometimes interfere with the development of proper walking skills or lead to falls. If used, make sure your baby is supervised at all times.

7. Keep Encouraging, but Be Patient:

Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. If your baby is meeting other milestones and is otherwise healthy, not walking yet is typically not a cause for concern. Continue to offer encouragement and opportunities for movement without pressuring them.

If your baby is walking a bit but not yet confidently, you can also provide support by encouraging them with games and activities that promote balance and coordination.

However, if your baby is not showing any interest in walking or shows other signs of developmental delays, it might be worth speaking with a pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist for further guidance.