My Baby can pull up to stand, now what?
Watching your baby develop new skills is one of the most rewarding parts of parenting. Two key milestones in your baby’s motor development are pulling to stand and eventually walking independently. As a pediatric physical therapist, I often work with families through this exciting phase. Here are some of my favorite tips to give you and your munchkin confidence during this milestone.
Pulling to stand is an essential skill that strengthens your baby’s legs, core, and balance. Here's how you can support this milestone:
Create a Safe Environment: Make sure your baby has sturdy furniture, like couches or low tables, to grab onto. You don’t want them grabbing anything that tips over easily!
Use Motivation: Babies are naturally curious and motivated by objects they want. (HINT, HINT - encourage them with a favorite toy or even you!).
Assist but Don’t Overdo It: Let your munchkin try on their own first. If they’re struggling, offer a gentle hand that still encourages them to do most of the work. Allow them to make movement “mistakes” safely as that can be a great learning experience.
Climbing: Ensure your baby gets plenty of crawling and climbing exposure, as these activities build the core and leg strength necessary for pulling to stand and walking.
Cruising: Once your baby can pull to stand, they’ll need to work on stability and balance. You can practice cruising with your munchkin by encouraging them to take side steps along furniture. Another good opportunity to motivate with toys! This helps develop balance and leg coordination.
Barefoot: Did you know letting a new walker go barefoot actually encourages their balance? Let your baby spend time barefoot as much as possible. This helps them develop not only their balance , but also their sensory awareness by feeling the ground directly.
Baby squats: Get your munchkin to do some squats! No, not like your workout at the gym, but place toys on the floor and encourage your baby to squat down to pick them up and then stand back up. This strengthens their legs and improves balance.
Falling safely: Allow your munchkin to fall (safely) from a sitting or standing position. Babies need to accept and “learn” how to fall before they will feel confident to take their first steps. I often recommend to safely encourage falling/crashing on a pile of pillows in a playful way to encourage munchkins to learn this skill.
Taking those first steps can feel scary for your munchkin, but before you know it, you’ll be chasing after them! Get your little one excited to take those steps by keeping the distance short, offering a helping hand, using fun push toys, and clapping and cheering! The more you incorporate the practice into their day, the better they’ll get and the more they’ll want to do it!
*Remember - every baby develops at their own pace, but if you notice any of the following, it may be time to consult a pediatric physical therapist:
Your baby is not attempting to pull to stand by 12 months.
They have difficulty bearing weight on their legs
They have not taken any independent steps by 18 months.
Early intervention can help identify and address any underlying issues, ensuring your baby gets the support they need.
Helping your munchkin progress from pulling to stand to walking involves patience, encouragement, and plenty of practice. By creating a safe and engaging environment, offering gentle support, and celebrating each milestone, you’re giving your munchkin the tools they need to develop strength, balance, and confidence. And remember—every journey is unique, so trust the process and enjoy watching your munchkin move!
