Is My Child’s Walking Normal? Red Flags to Watch For

Watching your child take their first steps is a milestone every parent looks forward to. But because children develop at different speeds, it’s natural to wonder whether your child’s walking is progressing as expected—or if something might need extra attention.

This guide will help you understand what normal walking development looks like, signs that may indicate a problem, and when it’s worth seeking professional advice.

Typical Walking Development by Age

Every child is unique, but here’s a general guide to walking milestones:

Age : What’s Typical

10–15 months: Pulls up to stand, cruises along furniture, may take first independent steps. Steps are usually wide-based and unsteady.

15–18 months: Walking becomes more confident. May attempt climbing or using stairs with support. Balance gradually improves.

18–24 months: Steadier walking. Can squat, run, or kick a ball. Begins navigating stairs with help.

2–3 years: Walks and runs with better coordination. Can climb, jump, and walk with a clear heel-toe pattern. Stairs may be managed independently.

Normal range: Some children walk as early as 9 months, while others may take until 18 months. A later start isn’t always a sign of a problem, but persistent delays or unusual patterns should be checked

Red Flags in Baby Walking Development

By 12 months

• Not pulling up to stand

• Not cruising along furniture

• Legs appear very floppy or stiff

• Shows little interest in bearing weight when supported

By 15–18 months

• Not yet walking independently

• Persistent toe-walking (walking only on toes)

• Favouring one leg or walking unevenly

• Frequent falling or poor balance

• Feet turning inwards or outwards noticeably

By 2 years

• Struggles to stand from the floor without help

• Walking remains unsteady or wobbly

• Cannot manage stairs even with support

• Ongoing toe-walking

Beyond 2–3 years

• Difficulty running, jumping, or climbing

• Trips and falls much more often than peers

• Limping, dragging a leg, or an unusual gait pattern

• Complains of foot, ankle, or leg pain

“Research Insight: A 2022 study on idiopathic toe-walking (ITW) in children found reduced ankle dorsiflexion in affected kids, common in Australia—early checks prevent long-term issues. check the researh on Australian children’s foot”

Possible Reasons for Walking Concerns

Several factors can affect how a child walks, including:

• Muscle tone differences (low or high muscle tone)

• Structural issues such as flat feet, tight tendons, or leg length differences

• Neurological conditions affecting balance or coordination

• Prematurity and slower muscle development

• Footwear or environment that doesn’t support natural movement

How Parents Can Support Walking at Home

• Give your child plenty of floor time to practise standing and moving.

• Encourage barefoot play on safe surfaces to build strength and coordination.

• Play games that involve standing, pushing, or pulling.

• Provide well-fitted, flexible shoes once outdoor walking begins.

• Practise stairs, squatting, and balancing through play

Check what Dr Mark Geil researched about it

Walking Delays in Kids: Signs to Seek Professional Help and Why It Matters Early

If your child shows any of the red flags above, or if you’re simply unsure, it’s best to have a professional assessment. Early support can make a big difference and prevent future issues.

A podiatrist can check foot alignment, muscle strength, and walking patterns. They may suggest exercises, stretches, or orthotics if needed, and provide guidance on footwear and ongoing monitoring.

Addressing walking concerns early can:

• Improve long-term mobility and posture

• Prevent strain on joints and muscles

• Boost your child’s confidence and participation in play and sport

• Support healthy growth and development

Final Thoughts

Every child develops differently, but trusting your instincts is key when it comes to walking milestones. If you're in the Hills District or Baulkham Hills and notice any concerns, our expert child podiatrist at Podhills Podiatry can provide specialized assessments and tailored treatment plans to address issues like toe-walking, in-toeing, or delayed steps.

Help your little one stride confidently—book a consultation with our child podiatrist today for personalized care right in your local area.

FAQs

• When should my baby start walking?

  Most Australian babies take first steps between 9-18 months, with averages at 12-17 months ,Consult if no steps by 18 months.

• Is toe-walking normal?

  Common up to age 2, but persistent beyond may need checks.

• What if my child skips crawling?

  Not essential; many walk fine without crawling

• How does prematurity affect walking?

  May delay by 2-3 months; monitor with your child health nurse.

• When to see a podiatrist for walking issues?

  For red flags like uneven gait or pain; early intervention prevents complications,

• Are baby walkers safe?

  Not recommended; they can delay milestones and cause injuries.