Babies and toddlers go through significant development to progress from standing unaided to become an energetic pre-schooler running and safely navigating space. Keep reading to find out how the skills for walking and running emerge (and at approximately what age), and the games you could play to encourage skill development.
Building blocks for walking and running
Babies learn to bear weight on their feet and cruise along furniture gaining in stability.
Walking pattern becomes more mature alongside a growing ability to navigate safely through their environment
A mature cross lateral running pattern should be present – arms and legs on opposite sides are working together
Babies
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Postural stability
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Bearing weight on the feet
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Pushing up to stand at a surface
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Standing alone.
Activities
See what activities can help to support this core skill.