Tips for getting your toddler walking??

[gemma59]

Hey Everyone,

My daughter is 17 months and has not yet started walking. I'm starting to get quite concerned and will be going to the HV if she's not walking by 18 months as I've read that's when they should ideally be walking by however, obviously every child is different.

For now has anyone got any advice on ways I can encourage her? Would also appreciate some reassurance if any of you have had later walkers.

Thanks :)

Just to add, she walks around on her knees and can walk along furniture just not independently :)

For what it’s worth, I walked on my knees as a toddler and didn’t start walking properly until I was 18 months old. I’m sure she’ll surprise you and get up and walk soon!

Will she stand and if you hold her hands @gemma59?

Ish but most of the time she'll just sit down. It's almost like she doesn't want to do it

In that case I'd get her checked before 18 months. The waiting till 18 months thing is really for toddlers that are happy to stand and bear weight. If she's not happy to do that, she needs checking by the GP.

Hi @gemma59 my 17 month old is exactly the same. She cruises confidently but can’t stand independently and doesn’t like to walk holding my hands either (will maybe take about 10 steps then sits down, then she will kick off if I try to get her to do it again!).

I was reassured by the HV at 16 months that it’s fine as she weight bears well and can squat etc so obviously has ok strength. But the more I read about it I’m getting worried as well. I’m due to see the HV again at 18 months but not sure if I should call and get seen sooner.. please update with what yours says!

😀