When do children start walking, and when should delayed walking be assessed?
First steps vary, but walking without holding a person or object is a milestone most children reach by eighteen months. Missing it should be discussed with a clinician, allowing for corrected age after prematurity. Loss of walking, weakness or pain needs assessment sooner.
Details
Progress matters more than comparison
Watch the transition from supported standing to movement and independent steps alongside other skills. Record new abilities and any side-to-side difference instead of relying only on comparison with another child.
Make movement safer
Offer supervised movement in a safe floor space. Seated wheeled baby walkers do not teach walking and can cause serious injuries. Remove fall hazards and secure furniture that could tip.
Early assessment can help
A clinician may assess muscles, joints and neurological development and consider physiotherapy or referral. Do not wait for a particular birthday after regression or reduced use of a limb. Delayed walking by itself does not identify one specific disease.
Related reading: When should a baby sit without support, and when is assessment needed?.