Physical Developmental Sequences 11-15 Months

Around a year of age, baby may start to experiment with standing on his own, without holding on to something or someone. This is the first step towards walking and it can be encouraged in several ways. One way is to hold on to baby on his back and briefly let go while he is standing. Another is to have baby stand and lean in a corner and hold on to a large toy or give him a ball to throw.

Once baby is standing and holding on to furniture, encourage them to start cruising along the furniture. This helps them develop the rhythm of walking and the muscles necessary for success. Also, by placing two chairs next to each other and asking baby to walk between them, she begins to gain confidence in her abilities. Soon you can move the chairs further apart and she will let go of one, take a step and grab hold of the next one.

At this age, baby can be encouraged to throw balls overhand, which assists her with developing balance while standing. As baby becomes more comfortable with standing on her own and possibly taking steps, let her stand/walk on different textures such as grass, gravel, sand, etc. Baby will walk between two adults when they begin to take steps and can be encouraged to walk longer and longer distances in this way. As she progresses, help her to walk up and down small inclines or hills.



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