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Babies' First Steps

Tal Shahar Ashkenazi, PhD, Physical Therapist, Deputy Director of the Child Development and Rehabilitation Department and National Coordinator for Pediatric Care, at the Ministry of Health's National Physical Therapy Department;  Huda Natur, Physical Therapist, Coordinator for Physical Therapy Care at the Ministry of Health's National Physical Therapy Department.
1 March 2026

Independent walking is a major milestone in babies' development. It provides the ability to explore the environment in a new way and enables a new level of independence in movement, exploration, communication, and play. As with any developmental process, walking occurs within a wide range of ages, which is perfectly typical.

When does it usually happen? Most babies take their first steps between 12 and 15 months of age. Some start a little earlier, at 10 months, whereas others start at 18 months or later.

The steps along the way

Walking does not occur in one moment; it is a developmental process which includes experiences of foot weight-bearing with the aim of transitioning to an upright posture and walking. At first, babies stand independently using support; then they start cruising while holding onto furniture, walls or any other objects; they move from one piece of furniture to another with the support of their hands, and at the same time, they start pushing objects, such as a chair or a stool, and later a wheeled object, such as a baby push-walker or a ride-on-toy. Finally, they stand independently, unaided and eventually walk by themselves.

How does it look

As mentioned, babies' first steps are usually for a short distance – from one piece of furniture to another, or from one parent to the other. They will stand independently; that is, they will let go of any support and take a step on their own. These steps typically appear unsteady; they walk with a wide stance, arms raised to maintain their balance, and the gait is unstable and wobbly, for a short distance. After a step or two, they usually lower themselves to the floor. This happens with most babies and as part of the process, until balance, posture, endurance, and spatial motor planning are developed and refined. It is important to note that babies' motivation for walking comes from curiosity, exploration, communication, the pleasure of walking, and gaining confidence. Therefore, it is essential to allow them to walk, while ensuring a safe environment. Sharp corners or slippery surfaces must be addressed.

Most babies walk when they are ready – all babies have their own pace. If your child is 18 months of age and has not yet pulled themselves up to stand, stood independently by furniture, cruised around furniture, or pushed an object, and if you have any concerns, contact your physician, a pediatric physical therapist, or a Tipat Halav (Family Care Center) nurse.

Independent walking is a significant and challenging developmental milestone for babies; the first step, in particular, is an exciting moment which holds a special place for parents and families. Walking is a major change for babies as they can explore areas they could not reach before and become far more independent.

Human beings have been designed to walk on two legs; it is genetically intrinsic to us. Walking is an action that enables us to control our environment to reach our surroundings, to be able to move from one place to another, to study, explore, and build social connections. The developmental stages that precede walking and the experiences babies have in various environments are significant and prepare them for walking. All body systems impact this development, particularly the cognitive, sensory, skeletal and muscular systems.

At the same time, it is important to note that there is no specific age for walking, but rather a broad timeframe, during which most babies start taking those first steps.

In this article we will present everything you need to know about babies' first steps: when they usually occur; what they actually look like; and how parents can properly support the process, while maintaining their safety.

When walking typically begins

As mentioned, there is no exact age for walking. Most babies take their first steps between 12 and 15 months of age. However, some start at 10 months, while others wait until 18 or even 20 months. All of this is completely typical.

If either parent started walking at a later age, it is possible that your baby will also walk relatively late. All babies have their own unique developmental pace. Developmental processes are interconnected, resulting from a combination of various body systems, genetic traits and experiences in diverse environments.

It is worth noting

It is worth noting

There is no connection between the age babies start walking and their abilities later in life. A child who begins walking at 10 months will not necessarily be smarter or stronger than a child who takes their first steps at 18 months.

The stages before independent walking

Before babies begin to walk independently, they go through several significant stages:

Babies will pull themselves up to stand from lying on their tummy, from crawling, from sitting while supporting themselves with their hands, or by using their arms to stand. In most cases, babies will pull themselves up by a parent to reach them.

In the first stage, most babies will pull themselves up with support, starting with the aid of both arms while holding onto furniture or other surfaces. Gradually, they will let go and lean their body against the furniture, freeing their arms to play. As they start standing, they will practice shifting their weight onto their feet and from leg to leg. Initially, babies who pull themselves up may struggle to return to a sitting or crawling position. With time and experience, they learn to lower themselves back to the floor with full control and also to release one hand and to pick up an object from the floor while remaining upright, as well as lowering themselves from a supported stand into a squat.

As babies start getting interested in toys, exploring their environment while standing, and with their developing posture, they will be able to reach out for a toy, shift weight from one leg to another, and cruise, namely, walk sideways while holding onto furniture. While cruising, babies typically move sideways along a sofa or table, using their hands for support. They will move from object to object, often adding a forward step instead of only moving sideways. This indicates that while babies know how to move, they still require support. This stage, which may last several weeks or months, is a crucial step toward independent walking. It strengthens muscles, develops arm and leg coordination, improves balance, and allows babies to get to know their environment from an upright perspective.

At this stage, babies will experiment with pushing furniture – such as a chair, a table, or a large box – with their hands while standing or walking. Initially, their steps are taken automatically as the furniture moves forward. Later, babies will initiate the movement with their legs and use their hands to push the furniture or object; at this point, the furniture serves as a source of support.

These are the initial small steps babies take without continuous support from furniture or objects. While these first steps typically occur between 10 and 12 months, independent walking often does not start until 14 and 16 months, and occasionally, as late as 18 to 20 months. These first steps can include:

  • Walking short distances (such as from the sofa to a table).
  • Standing alone and taking a step or two in your direction.

Independent walking typically begins with short steps. Babies often hold a toy, a bottle or another small object to help them to stabilize; if the object falls, they will usually lower themselves to the floor or look for support from a piece of furniture. At the beginning, walking is limited to straight lines, but it soon develops to include movement in all directions. Over time, babies take more and more steps independently, as part of a gradual progression process that lasts for several months.

Early signs of first steps

There are several signs that your baby is about to take those first steps:

  • Standing against furniture for body support and letting go to play with their hands.
  • Cruising along and around furniture and objects of various heights and moving from one to another.
  • Transitioning between sitting and standing positions, whether from a chair or the floor.
  • Standing against a wall, mirror, or door.
  • Standing by a table or a sofa with the support of one hand and stooping to pick up a dropped object.
  • Standing for a short while without needing to hold on.
  • Standing without hand support while holding a toy or a bottle.

If you notice these signs, you are on the right track. Within a few weeks or months, those first steps will happen.

Important to note

Important to note

To encourage the urge to walk and boost your baby's drive and motivation, you can place a favorite toy a short distance away and call your baby to come over. It is important to stay at their eye level and within a short distance – just slightly beyond their arm's reach.

What do those first steps actually look like

When those first steps finally happen, they might not look exactly how you imagined:

While it looks funny and cute, there is a reason for that: the necessity for stability. Over time, as muscles strengthen and balance improves, the legs will naturally move closer together.

Most babies raise their arms to shoulder height or higher to help them balance. This is a natural reaction aimed at using the arms to keep them steady.

The steps are very small and can be a bit wobbly at first. This is all part of a natural process.

Initially, walking distances are short and, if your baby is already crawling, they may prefer to revert to crawling as their primary means of mobility. However, before long, they will choose to walk. Some babies walk at home, but the moment they are in the playground or in an unfamiliar house, they go back to crawling. In these situations, encourage your baby to stand against high surfaces and cruise along or around them, or allow them to push a ride-on toy, a push walker, their stroller, or even hold onto your hands. This helps them become familiar with new environments until they feel comfortable walking there, too.

At first, babies fall quite often. This is perfectly normal, but it is important to ensure your home is safe for them (see tips below).

From first steps to steady walking

Walking does not become steady overnight. It is a process that can take several months from the time those first steps are taken:

  • During the first months of walking, babies still require support. They will hold onto their parents or furniture and often prefer to move from one place to another by pushing an object or crawling.
  • With time and experience, they will prefer carrying objects while they walk. Walking becomes a way to get from place to place. At the same time, they will start climbing onto higher surfaces or sitting on low stools or chairs. They will gain the ability to stop, pick up an object from the floor, stand back up, and continue walking, and even change directions along the way. Meanwhile, they will begin walking outdoors on various surfaces, inclines and declines. Initially, they will look for their parent's hand to gain stability, but later they will manage independently. In the next phase, they will also try to climb stairs while holding their parent's hand.
  • At approximately two years of age, an important milestone is reached: toddlers learn to kick a ball, pass or throw a ball, run, and stop. They enjoy carrying large objects from place to place and begin climbing stairs while holding onto the railing.
  • By approximately two and a half years of age, walking becomes steadier, and toddlers begin jumping in place.
  • From this stage until around the age of four, walking continues to develop until it resembles that of an adult. By the age of seven, balance reactions in both walking and running will reach adult-like maturity.

It is important to note

It is important to note

Development is not a linear process; your child may walk confidently one day, and experience numerous falls the next. It is all part of the process.

What can we do to support walking

Some recommendations worth knowing:

First steps require a flat, obstacle-free surface, such as the floor, a firm mattress, or an alternative home surface (avoid using a bed).

It is recommended that babies initially walk with bare feet. Walking with bare feet allows them to sense the floor better, which helps both balance development, and strengthens the foot muscles. It is important for them to experience walking on various surfaces and in different surroundings, including walking barefoot on non-rigid surfaces, such as grass or sand.

When the time comes, and you decide to buy shoes, it is essential to choose a pair that provides ankle and heel support without restricting the foot's movement. Most importantly, it is recommended to continue allowing your child to walk barefoot at home.

Further information in the article about first shoes

Home safety is a particularly important topic at this stage. While it is not something to stress about, it is essential to be mindful of the following:

  • Make sure that all household furniture is stable. Specifically, any other pieces of furniture your baby may cling to or hold onto must be safe and anchored.
  • It is essential to protect your baby from the sharp edges of walls, tables or any other furniture.
  • Clear the floor of toys or any other objects your baby may accidentally step on.
  • It is important to exercise the utmost caution with cables, electrical wires and other obstacles your baby may trip over.
  • Ensure that all cupboard doors containing hazardous materials or objects are locked.

As your child starts taking their first steps, it is advisable to use a toy or your own presence to create interest, using phrases like: 'Come to me!' or 'Come see what I have here!'. And of course, get down to their eye level. Encouragement helps tremendously, but pressure just will not do the trick. It is essential to allow them the time and space to experiment and spark their curiosity.

Babies adore playing with a stroller or a small toy they can push as they walk. This gives them something to lean on and push forward while walking. This is a good tool but certainly not a requirement.

It is important to note

It is important to note

A sense of competence and a curiosity about the environment are the primary drivers encouraging babies to start walking independently. Starting to walk a month earlier or later has no significance whatsoever. Walking becomes independent only when babies are ready – and not a moment sooner.

Common phenomena worth knowing

Flatfoot: When babies stand and walk, it may look as though they have flat feet. This is often a source of great concern for parents, yet it is perfectly normal. In babies and even toddlers, the feet usually appear flat because they have a thick fat pad in the arch area. Additionally, their muscles and ligaments are not yet sufficiently developed and strong, and their balance system is still evolving. Therefore, when babies stand, the arch 'disappears', but when they sit or stand on their tiptoes, the arch is usually visible. Walking barefoot on various surfaces, both rigid and non-rigid, like grass or sand, helps strengthen the foot and develops the posture and the balance system. The foot's arch resembles that of an adult only at the age of four or five. Consequently, in most cases, no specific treatment – such as orthotics or other interventions – is required. If the foot remains flat after the age of six, you can seek medical consultation. However, until then, it is simply part of the expected development process.

Toe Walking: Some babies, especially at the first stages of walking, walk on tiptoes. They may only walk on tiptoes or combine it with regular walking. This is a very common phenomenon that usually resolves on its own within a short period; days, weeks, or a few months at most. Most babies stop toe walking without requiring any treatment. In rare cases, toe walking can reflect an orthopedic or a developmental issue. Therefore, if toe walking happens frequently and persists for a long period of time (more than a few months), it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist.

Delayed walking

First and foremost, it is important to remember that there is no cause for concern. The 'normal' range for starting to walk is between 12 and 18 months, though for some babies it may take a little longer. Many babies start walking later without any medical reason; it is simply a matter of personality and individual pace.

What should I do if my child has not started walking yet at twelve months?

If your one-year-old:

  • Is not yet standing independently or with support.
  • Shows no interest in standing.
  • Cannot sit down independently.
  • Or if you feel that something is wrong with their development (such as hand or general coordination).

You should contact a pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist for professional advice. Often, it is just a matter of time, but sometimes a little support is required.

Medical causes for delayed walking

These causes are uncommon, as almost all children will walk independently before they reach 18 months of age. However, when such factors are present, they may include the following:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle or joint hypermobility
  • Muscle tone that is either too low or too high
  • Pain or limping
  • Improper foot alignment
  • Joint issues
  • Leg length discrepancy
  • Developmental delay
  • Prematurity
  • Neurological issues (extremely rare)

Nevertheless, it is important to remember that in most cases, development is normal. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to seek consultation.

Factors influencing the pace of walking development

  • Internal factors (personal traits)

    In addition to familial factors, such as hypermobility, and body build, which are genetic, the baby's temperament plays a significant role. In active and dynamic babies, walking can start sooner, whereas quieter ones may take their time, until they feel secure enough. Everyone has their own internal pace.

  • External factors (the environment)

    The stimuli in the environment significantly influence the development of walking. A home that enables safe exploration, encourages motion, and offers plenty of opportunities for free movement and exploration of the surroundings, and less time spent in chairs, bouncers, or swings, can help promote development.

In conclusion, we would like to emphasize once again that every baby has unique traits and their own personal pace – in sleep, eating, and development, as well as in walking. It is not recommended to compare children, as there is no exact formula here. It is advisable to allow your child their own time without feeling pressured. It is important to know when to let go, to provide your baby with a sense of confidence and tranquility, offering them opportunities to walk independently. And remember, those first steps are just the beginning; running, climbing, and jumping are soon to follow. Enjoy this moment before you have to start chasing after them…