POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy10 months agoA. If your 12-month-old baby has not started walking yet, it’s important to remember that children develop at different rates, and there is a wide range of normal when it comes to milestones like walking. Some babies may begin walking as early as 9 months, while others may take a little longer, up to 18 months or more.
However, there are a few things you can consider:
1. Developmental Variations:
Not all babies walk at the same age. Some babies may crawl longer, which can delay walking, while others may skip crawling altogether and go straight to walking. It’s important to look at the overall development, including motor skills, strength, and coordination.
2. Encouraging Movement:
You can help encourage your baby to walk by providing plenty of tummy time, playing games that involve standing and cruising (moving along furniture while standing), and supporting them to stand while holding your hands or using a walker.
3. Check for Other Signs of Development:
Observe if your baby is showing other signs of readiness to walk, such as:
Pulling themselves up to stand
Walking along furniture (cruising)
Standing without support for short periods
4. Possible Concerns:
If your baby is not showing any of the above signs or seems to be having difficulty with balance, muscle weakness, or coordination, it’s worth discussing with a pediatrician. They may want to assess whether there are any underlying issues like developmental delays or physical concerns, such as hip dysplasia or muscle tone issues.
5. Patience and Reassurance:
Most importantly, be patient. Some babies may take a little longer to start walking, and that doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. Keep offering support, encouragement, and a safe environment to explore.
If you're feeling concerned, a pediatric check-up can help provide more clarity and peace of mind.
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