Preparing for the Infant's Initial Steps: A 10-12 Month Plan
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As your baby reaches the 10-12 month milestone, an exciting period begins - the journey towards their first steps. Here are some strategies to help your little one take their first independent steps safely and joyfully.
Allow and encourage pulling up and cruising
Your baby will likely start pulling themselves up on furniture and begin cruising (walking while holding onto support) during this period. Ensure furniture is stable and safe, and lower crib mattresses to prevent falls as babies start standing 1, 3, 5.
Use motivating toys to prompt movement
Place colourful or favourite toys just out of reach to encourage your baby to stand and take steps towards them. Push toys or toys that can βrun aheadβ also stimulate walking attempts 4.
Teach safe standing and sitting transitions
Show your baby how to bend knees and sit down gently from standing to avoid abrupt falls and injuries [4].
Avoid walkers
Baby walkers can restrict natural movement and pose injury risks, so itβs advisable to avoid them for babies learning to walk [4].
Incorporate varied physical activities
Activities like tummy time strengthen neck, shoulder, and arm muscles; crawling over ramps, tunnels, or gentle bumps improves coordination; and dancing or gentle movement with music enhances balance and rhythm 2.
Provide plenty of floor time
A safe, open space where babies can move freely helps them explore different gross motor skills like crawling, pulling to stand, and cruising 1, [2].
Be patient and supportive
Not all babies walk between 10-12 months; some take longer, including preterm infants. Avoid forcing walking to prevent frustration or injury, and consult a pediatrician if concerns arise [4].
In addition to these strategies, promoting self-help skills by encouraging self-feeding, dressing, and basic clean-up tasks also supports your baby's growing independence.
Remember, every baby progresses at their own pace, so patience and understanding are key. Cheer your baby on, celebrate their milestones, and enjoy this wonderful journey together!
References:
- CDC: Positive Parenting Tips for 10-12 Months
- National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning: Promoting Infant and Toddler Development: The Importance of Physical Activity
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Safe Sleep: Reducing the Risk of SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Causes of Infant Death
- Healthy Children: Helping Your Baby Walk
- BabyCenter: When Can Babies Start Walking?
