Slow to walk

All children develop at their own rate, some crawl quickly and take a long time to develop the skill to walk, others never crawl at all and proceed straight to walking, and boys are usually that little bit slower to walk, it just depends. It’s important not to be too concerned having watched other children’s pace, however, there are some milestones your child should be reaching:

• 6 weeks: sits with curved back, needs support. Head control developing.
• 4 months: head control.
• 6-7 months: sits with self-propping (hands pushing down on legs as he/she sits). Stands with support.
• 9 months: gets into sitting position alone.
• 10 months: pulls to standing and stands holding on.
• 12 months: stands and walks with one hand held.
• 15 months: walks independently, stoops to pick up objects. Creeps up stairs.
• 18 months: climbs stairs holding rail. Runs. Sits her/his self in chair.
• 21 months: walks backwards with imitation. Walks upstairs, two feet per step.
• 2 years: goes up and down stairs alone.
• 2½ years: jumps with both feet. Walks on tiptoe when asked.
• 3 years: able to stand on one foot for a few seconds.

If you are concerned, speak to your health care professional, they will be happy to assess your child and refer you to someone who can help. Like all areas of development, if you are concerned, don’t delay getting help.