One of the most common questions parents ask is, “My baby isn’t walking yet. Should I be worried?”
Watching other children take their first steps can make it difficult not to compare your child’s progress. You may notice babies of a similar age confidently toddling around while your little one is still crawling, bottom shuffling or cruising along furniture.
The good news is that there is a wide range of what is considered normal. Every child develops at their own pace, and learning to walk is no exception.
This guide explains when babies typically start walking, what signs to look out for, when to seek professional advice, and how you can support your child’s development.
When do babies usually start walking?
Most babies begin taking their first independent steps between 12 and 18 months of age.
Before walking, they usually develop several important movement skills, including:
These skills help build the balance, strength and coordination needed for walking.
Some babies may walk as early as 9 or 10 months, while others don’t take independent steps until 17 or 18 months. Both can be completely normal.
What if my baby isn’t walking at 12 months?
If your baby isn’t walking by their first birthday, there is usually no reason to panic.
Many children are still:
Walking requires much more than strong legs. It also depends on balance, coordination, confidence and problem-solving.
Some children simply take a little longer to feel ready.
Why do some babies walk later?
Every child develops differently, but several factors can influence when walking begins.
They are focusing on other skills
Some children develop language, fine motor skills or social interaction before gross motor skills.
Development is not a race, and children rarely progress in every area at exactly the same speed.
They are naturally cautious
Some children are adventurous and eager to explore, while others prefer to feel completely secure before taking independent steps.
A cautious personality often means a child spends longer perfecting standing and cruising before walking.
They were born prematurely
Premature babies often reach milestones later than babies born at full term.
When assessing development, healthcare professionals usually consider your baby’s corrected age, particularly during the first two years.
They prefer another way of moving
Some babies:
These children may take a little longer to walk because their chosen way of moving already allows them to explore their environment.
When should I be concerned?
Although late walking is often perfectly normal, there are situations where an assessment is recommended.
Speak to your GP, Health Visitor or paediatric physiotherapist if your child:
These signs do not necessarily mean something is seriously wrong, but they do warrant further assessment.
Early intervention can make a significant difference if support is needed.
My baby bottom shuffles. Will they walk?
Yes.
Many bottom shufflers go on to become confident walkers.
Bottom shuffling is simply another way of getting around. However, because these children often don’t spend as much time weight-bearing through their hands and knees, they may develop walking slightly later.
If your child is progressing steadily and meeting other milestones, bottom shuffling alone is not usually a cause for concern.
My baby hates standing. Should I force them?
No.
Children learn best through play rather than being forced into positions they are not ready for.
Instead, encourage standing naturally by:
Learning should always feel enjoyable.
How can I encourage my baby to walk?
The best way to encourage walking is to create opportunities rather than pressure.
Give plenty of floor time
Allow your child to explore different positions and move freely.
Encourage cruising
Place toys along the sofa to encourage side-stepping.
Practise standing
Offer support while your child practises standing and reaching for toys.
Walk barefoot indoors
Bare feet help children develop balance, foot strength and body awareness.
Avoid prolonged use of baby walkers
Sit-in baby walkers can actually limit opportunities to develop natural balance and movement skills.
Push-along toys, when used appropriately, are a much better option.
Does my child need physiotherapy?
Not every late walker needs physiotherapy.
However, an assessment can provide reassurance if you are unsure whether your child is developing as expected.
A paediatric physiotherapist assesses much more than whether your child is walking.
We look at:
Sometimes parents simply need reassurance that everything is progressing normally.
If we identify any difficulties, we can provide a personalised programme to help your child build the skills needed for walking.
Common myths about walking
“Using a baby walker helps babies walk sooner.”
This is a common misconception.
Research shows that sit-in baby walkers do not teach children how to walk and may even delay some aspects of normal movement development.
“My child must crawl before walking.”
Not necessarily.
Many babies skip traditional crawling altogether and still become perfectly healthy walkers.
However, if your child isn’t moving around in any way or has other developmental concerns, it’s worth seeking advice.
“Late walking always means there is a problem.”
Absolutely not.
Many healthy children simply develop at their own pace and become confident walkers without any intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal not to walk at 14 months?
Yes. Many children begin walking independently between 12 and 18 months.
When should I worry if my baby isn’t walking?
If your child is approaching 18 months and is not attempting independent walking, or if they show other concerning signs such as stiffness, floppiness or significant asymmetry, it is advisable to seek an assessment.
Can physiotherapy help a late walker?
Yes. If there is an underlying movement difficulty, paediatric physiotherapy can improve strength, balance, coordination and confidence while supporting your child’s motor development.
Reassurance for parents
Every child follows their own developmental journey.
Some children seem eager to run before they can walk, while others carefully perfect each stage before moving on. Both approaches can be completely normal.
Try not to compare your child with others at baby groups or on social media. The age at which children walk can vary considerably, and a few months’ difference is often part of typical development.
If you have concerns, trust your instincts. Seeking advice doesn’t mean something is wrong—it simply provides reassurance or, if needed, allows support to begin early.
Need advice about your child’s walking?
At Florikids Physiotherapy, we provide specialist paediatric physiotherapy assessments for babies and children from birth to 16 years. If you’re concerned that your baby isn’t walking, we’d be happy to assess their movement, answer your questions and provide tailored advice to support their development. We welcome families across Northampton, Milton Keynes, Towcester, Daventry, Rugby, Wellingborough and the surrounding areas.
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