When will my infant begin to walk?

The average age that babies start to walk is around 12 months. Some babies may start to take their first steps as early as 9-10 months of age and others will not walk until closer to 15 months of age.

Many factors, such a prematurity, can influence when a baby begins to walk. The key thing to consider is whether or not your baby is making appropriate developmental progress. Babies begin to develop their motor strength by gaining head control, rolling, learning to sit, then crawl, and eventually holding on to furniture or a parent's hands to walk. Ultimately they can stand briefly and before you know it they are taking independent steps!

Even though it may be difficult, try not to compare to other babies, especially if your baby is making appropriate developmental progress. If you feel your baby is not meeting the milestones that she should be, talk to your pediatrician so that she may do a full developmental assessment.

Although there is no specific age when your infant will begin to walk most babies start walking around 1 year of age. However, it can be as early as 9 months or as late as 15 months or older. Make sure you are giving your infant the opportunity to walk. Allow for plenty of free play time down on the ground. Put toys slightly out of reach to encourage movement. As always, contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns.