Language Development Disorders in Children
Nov 19, 2024By Dr. Akanksha Priya
Being able to walk is an exhilarating experience for toddlers and parents alike. Typically achieved between 12-14 months, walking lays the foundation for future physical development, including running, jumping, and balance. A 12 month old child is usually able to walk with support and take another month or two before starting to walk without support. As a parent, you are playing a pivotal role in supporting your child's growth. Here are walking activities tailored according to age for helping toddlers refine their skills:
Activities before walkingÂ
Before you start activities which help develop walking, you should ensure that your toddler has mastered the following skills;
- Sitting up without support
- Crawling
- Standing with support
Activities to encourage walkingÂ
- Hold and Walk : You can hold your toddler's hands, providing balance and support while encouraging them to walk.
- Walking Behind Toys: You can place toys or objects just out of reach of the child encouraging your toddler to walk towards them.
- Follow the Leader: You can walk ahead calling your child, encouraging your toddler to follow.
- Obstacle Course: You can set up a simple obstacle course using cushions, chairs, or cones and make crossing it a game.
- Music and Movement: You can play music while clapping or marching to encourage walking.
- Balance Beams: You can create a balance beam using a broom handle or narrow board to improve balance while walking.
- Heel-To-Toe Walking: You can help your child practice walking along a straight line.
- Backward Walking: You can encourage walking backwards after your child is older to help develop more skill.
