When Do Babies Start Walking?

Your Baby Has Started Crawling; So When Will They Start Walking?

You’re curious about how your little one will take their first steps and maintain balance. Every baby’s walking process can be different. The age a child starts walking is not related to their intelligence. Gross motor development varies among babies. Motor skills develop through the maturation of the central nervous system and learning. Environmental factors can also affect the speed or delay of this development. After reading this article, your questions will be answered.

Crawling Stage

Crawling can be considered a practice before transitioning to walking. Although some babies may skip crawling, most crawl before walking. Both are normal processes.

Babies usually learn to sit with balance around 5–6 months. From 6–7 months onward, they can sit unsupported. Learning to sit first makes crawling easier, though some babies may learn to crawl before sitting. Both sequences are normal.

Crawling styles also vary; some babies crawl very quickly, while others crawl more slowly.

First Steps

Once your baby has successfully crawled, they are ready for the next stage. Babies typically take their first steps around 11 months. Over the following months (12–18 months), they usually adapt to walking. Some babies may not take their first steps until 18 months. Unless there is a serious health issue, 18 months is still considered within the normal range. If your baby hasn’t started walking by 18 months, consult a specialist.

Parents often consider using walkers during the crawling and walking stage, usually around 4–7 months, sometimes due to pressure from friends or family. Walkers can interrupt the natural sequence of development (reflex stage, crawling before fully standing, learning to stand, and walking). For this reason, doctors generally do not recommend walker use.

How Can You Support Walking?

Supporting your baby during the walking stage is very important. Initially, your baby may be hesitant because they do not know how to start walking. Here are some tips:

• Make your baby feel safe. Let them know you are nearby so they can walk without fear. If they fall, do not laugh—support them with words and gestures.
• Ensure safety in areas where they will hold on. Sharp corners or unsafe furniture can frighten babies if they get hurt, slowing their progress. Take necessary safety measures without disrupting daily routines.
• Once your baby is ready, hold their hands and practice small steps together. Repeated practice during the day will help them get used to walking.
• Avoid shoes during practice. Walking barefoot or in socks allows them to feel the floor, which helps balance and strengthen foot muscles.
• Choose comfortable clothing that allows free movement. Tight or layered clothing can restrict movement, making walking difficult.
• Let your baby face minor challenges independently. As long as falls aren’t dangerous, don’t rush to help—they need to learn to get up and balance on their own.
• Encourage movement by placing a favorite toy a few steps away. This motivates your baby to take steps to reach it, accelerating walking practice.