The importance of walking to development, and how to support both very young and older children to learn the skill. By Dr Lala Manners

How, when and where their child first walked is a moment many parents remember vividly. It is one of the few movement skills that may be enjoyed by all generations worldwide.

There is plenty of time to allow walking to emerge according to each child’s unique timetable, and forcing it to happen is rarely beneficial. Instead, allowing this skill to be built soundly on lots of rolling, crawling and climbing experience ensures that the necessary overall strength, balance and co-ordination is in place for mature and fluent walking. Walking is a critical factor in ensuring running is acquired without difficulty.

Development

There is a wide time span when children start walking, usually between ten and 20 months. Allowing children to practise walking without overt intrusion has a positive impact on their safety and confidence.

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