#asktheexpert
My baby is 20 months old and still she doesnt have confidence to walk independently. She will walk with support . She climb the sofa, bed up and come down without any help. But when it comes to walking she needs hand. If we give a finger also as a support she walks and even we dont have to control her.

But if we ask her to walk alone without any help she will not walk. Please suggest a way . Her other growth factors are fine only.

Question

#asktheexpert 
My baby is 20 months old and still she doesnt have confidence to walk independently. She will walk with support . She climb the sofa, bed up and come down without any help. But when it comes to walking she needs hand. If we give a finger also as a support she walks and even we dont have to control her.

But if we ask her to walk alone without any help she will not walk. Please suggest a way . Her other growth factors are fine only.

Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to develop at different rates, and some may take a little longer to walk independently than others. Since your 20-month-old can climb onto and off the sofa and walk with support, she is displaying good strength and coordination. Here are some suggestions to encourage her to gain the confidence to walk independently:

1. Encouragement and Praise: Celebrate her efforts when she attempts to walk on her own, even if it’s just a few steps. Positive reinforcement can help build her confidence.

2. Create a Safe Space: Ensure that she has a safe, open area to practice walking without the risk of falling onto hard surfaces. Soft mats or carpets can provide a safe environment.

3. Use Push Toys: Encourage her to use sturdy push toys or walkers. These can provide stability and support while she practices walking. Make sure the toys are age-appropriate and won't tip over easily.

4. Practice Without Pressure: Instead of pushing her to walk independently, encourage her to take small steps on her own without any pressure. You can place toys a short distance away to motivate her to walk toward them.

5. Limit Hand-Holding: When she walks with your support, gradually reduce the amount of help you give. Instead of holding her hand, try holding her wrist or standing close by to give her the reassurance she needs while encouraging her to take steps independently.

6. Model Walking: Walk around her and encourage her to join you. You can even make it a fun game by walking backward or moving in a way that invites her to follow you.

7. Patience is Key: Remember that every child develops at their own pace. As long as she is meeting other developmental milestones—such as talking, socializing, and playing—there's typically no need for concern.

If you continue to have concerns about her walking or if she shows other developmental delays, it might be beneficial to discuss these with her pediatrician. They can provide additional guidance or refer you to a specialist if needed.