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 to Watch For
Here are some signs that your child’s walking may need closer attention:
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
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
When to Seek Help
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.
Why Early Action Matters
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 there are clear signs when walking isn’t progressing as expected. If you notice delays, unusual patterns, or anything that worries you, trust your instincts and seek advice.
At Podhills Podiatry, we provide specialised assessments and treatment plans for children’s walking concerns. Our team is here to guide you with professional care, practical advice, and ongoing support to help your child walk comfortably and confidently.