What if my baby isn't walking yet?


As with every developmental milestone, babies walk in their own time. About 50% of babies walk by one year but that still leaves another half of babies that will learn between 12 and 16 months. Babies who are more interested in fine motor or verbal development may walk later than their more physical peers. The use of bouncers and walkers may also delay walking in some babies. A baby should show an interest in independent locomotion by one year but does not need to be walking. If your baby does not show an interest in moving around, has very stiff or very loose limbs, is showing signs of motor regression (losing previously mastered skills), always walks on his or her toes, has trouble grasping objects, or drools and has difficulty eating, make an appointment to speak with your physician.

Candace Lindemann

Children's Author & Education Consultant

Candace Lindemann is a published children’s writer and educational consultant. She holds a B.A. from Yale University and an M.Ed. from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. You can also find Candace blogging at http://NaturallyEducational.com. While Candace’s degrees prepared her for a career in education, she’s found that the best preparation for parenting is on-the-job training.