Walking is taking steps independently without holding on. Many babies take their first steps around their first birthday, but the normal range is wide; the CDC lists walking without holding on to anyone or anything as a milestone by 18 months.
What you can do
- Let your baby practise barefoot indoors.
- Encourage steps by kneeling a short distance away with open arms.
- Make stairs and sharp corners safe.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your child is not walking by 18 months, walks only on tiptoes, limps, or loses walking skills.
Frequently asked questions
Bare feet are best indoors; flexible, well-fitting shoes are enough once your child walks outside.