Nothing brings parents more joy than seeing their little ones develop through the various stages of infancy.
When it comes to this, the role of being a parent is rewarding and pleasurable, and usually comes with a lot of expectation as you try and navigate through discovering what milestone moment you and your toddler will experience together next.
Among these are their first tooth, words as well as the one that most parents are eager to witness – their first steps.
While you as the parent find yourself overwhelmed with excitement, you might find your child holding back on his ability to start walking. The reason for this is nothing you need to be concerned about as most babies start taking their steps between 8 to 17 months.
According to Parenting, some take even longer, but this is often when the child is premature.
However, there are certain things that you as the parent can do to facilitate the development process by encouraging your toddler to strengthen his or her muscles.
Here are some tips:
Pulling up
According to parenting hub – Parenting – most babies often show a sense of curiosity at eight months old. During this time, you may discover your toddler making serious attempts to pull themselves up onto couch cushions, or cupboards. This is the beginning stage of strengthening their leg muscles ahead of their walking journey.
According to the above-mentioned publication, this is the perfect time for parents to show their toddlers how to bend their knees to get up and sit down safely.
Help with walking
Once your baby displays signs of confidence, another thing you can do is to hold their hand and get them used to the feeling of moving forward while standing. The more you do this the more your baby will get used to the feeling of taking its first steps.
Cruising
Cruising occurs when your toddler starts taking independent steps while holding onto something of their height. This can be a chair, couch or small coffee table. It is often here that they take small leaps of faith and attempt to stand independently.
Pathways, an online parenting blog, says that this is the perfect moment for parents to get involved. “Babies love toys! Use them to give them a reason to walk over to you. Tease them with toys just out of reach, so they have to find a way to come closer to you.”
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