One (Baby) Step at a Time...
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Oh, baby! Your baby's development may seem like it's happening in the blink of an eye. Literally. Within their first year, you have seen them smile, giggle, roll, sit-up, crawl, pull-up, and now your baby is getting ready for those first steps! Seeing your baby's success with each of these milestones may feel like winning the big game. Enjoy (and don't' forget to capture - photos and video) each moment.
Most babies take their first steps anywhere between 9 and 13 months. Of course, development differs, and there are certainly children who operate outside of these general norms. Always talk with your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns (early interventions are the best interventions).
If you are seeing your baby beginning to pull up on furniture and such, they are definitely on their way to those first steps. As they gain confidence, you will begin to see them move from one object to another (i.e. the couch to the coffee table to the chair). This is called "cruising." It's also called a good time to triple check your home for baby proofing!
Development takes a natural course, and, at this point, there are no fancy gizmos or gadgets that you need to buy to support your child in refining this new skill. You don't even need to bother with the purchase of shoes during this time. That will all come soon enough. Most experts agree that bare feet will help a child develop coordination and balance.
Are you thinking about getting a walker or other toy that may help your child move from here to there? Always keep in mind the safety of your child. This is especially true if you have stairs in your home (be sure those baby gates are up). Experts have also noted that a baby really doesn't gain anything from being in a walker. In fact, confinement to this type of seat does not enhance the development of your baby's upper leg muscles as the walker makes it easier to get around. Sometimes, the work is worth the outcomes.
It may happen a day, a week, or even a month later.
Your baby is well on their way to taking their first steps.
Enjoy it "one step at a time."
