A child’s first steps are a momentous occasion, but the age at which this milestone is reached could be determined by genetics, a new study suggests.

Scientists analysed the genetic information of more than 70,000 babies and identified 11 genetic markers that influence when youngsters take their first steps.

In findings published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, the team, from the universities of Surrey and Essex, suggested that genetics accounts for about a quarter of the differences in when children begin to walk.

Professor Angelica Ronald, senior researcher on the study from the University of Surrey, said that “most babies take their first step sometime between ages eight months and 24 months, so it is a wide window in which this exciting milestone happens.

“It is a big moment for both parents and baby; it symbolises a new phase in a child’s life.

“We hope these new genetic findings can advance fundamental understanding about the causes of walking and be used to better support children with motor disorders and learning disabilities.

“While parents should still see their GP if they are concerned, a slightly later start is not always a sign of problems.

“There is a lot of variety in when children take their first step on their own.”

Scientists analysed the genetic information of more than 70,000 babies (Getty/iStock)

Dr Anna Gui, who worked on the study, added that, until now, “we didn’t understand what causes the wide differences between children in when they take their first step”.

“Parents might often worry that walking early or late is a bad sign or that they have done something wrong.

“We see that genetics play a considerable role in influencing the timing of this milestone.”

The study found that those genes influencing when children take their first steps are partly the same genetic factors that influence brain development.

There is also a relationship between the later onset of walking and genes that are involved in higher educational attainment.

Walking later, but within the typical range, was further linked genetically with less chance of developing ADHD, the research suggested.

date:2025-05-06 23:13:00

Scientists Discover Why Some Babies Learn to Walk Later: A Comprehensive Guide

The journey of watching your baby grow and reach developmental milestones is filled with excitement and anticipation. One of the most eagerly awaited milestones is walking. While some babies seem to take their first steps effortlessly around their first birthday, others might take a more leisurely approach. This can leave parents wondering, “why is my baby walking late?” recent scientific research is shedding light on the complex factors that influence when a baby learns to walk, helping parents understand and support their child’s unique developmental journey.

The Science Behind the Stroll: Understanding Motor Development

Learning to walk is a culmination of several interconnected developmental processes. Scientists are now understanding that it’s not just about leg strength; it’s a complex interplay of genetics, muscle development, neurological maturation, and environmental factors. Research highlights the following key elements:

Muscle Strength and Coordination: Adequate strength in the legs,core,and back is crucial. Scientists have found that variations in muscle fiber types and their development can play a role in the timing of walking.
Neurological Development: the brain and nervous system must be ready to coordinate the complex movements required for walking. Myelination,the process of insulating nerve fibers,is vital for efficient signal transmission. Variations in the rate of myelination can contribute to differences in walking age.
Balance and Proprioception: Balance is essential for maintaining an upright posture and preventing falls. Proprioception, the body’s awareness of its position in space, also plays a crucial role. Studies suggest that variations in the development of the vestibular system (responsible for balance) can affect walking readiness.
Sensory Integration: Integrating sensory facts from vision, touch, and proprioception is key for spatial awareness and navigation while walking. Deficiencies here can lead to delayed walking

Genetic Predisposition and Walking: Is it in the Genes?

While environmental factors play a meaningful role, genetics also have a part to play in determining when a baby learns to walk. Studies on twins have shown a correlation in the age at which they start walking, suggesting a genetic component. Researchers are investigating specific genes that may influence motor development, muscle strength, and coordination. Though, remember genes do not determine destiny, they create possibilities. A supportive and stimulating environment can definately help a child reach their full potential nonetheless of their genetic makeup.

Family History and Walking

It’s critically important to look at your own family history. Were you or your partner late walkers? While not determinative, these trends may be indicative of underlying patterns in motor development.

The Role of Prematurity and Birth Weight

Premature babies often reach developmental milestones later than full-term infants. This is because they have less time to develop in the womb and may have medical complications that affect their motor skills development. Low birth weight can also contribute to delayed motor development due to nutritional deficiencies and potential health issues. It’s important never to compare your baby’s developmental timeline with that of babies born full-term. The corrected age(age from the due date) should be used for calculating developmental milestones.

Scientific studies consistently show a correlation, however, these are statistical trends and not personal facts. Premature babies develop at their own pace, and early intervention therapies coupled with parental support can greatly improve their developmental trajectory.

Environmental Factors Affecting Walking Development

The environment in which a baby grows up plays a vital role in shaping their motor skills. Factors like the amount of floor time, the availability of opportunities to explore and practice movement, and the presence of assistive devices can all influence when a baby learns to walk.

Floor Time and Exploration: Babies need ample opportunity to practice crawling, creeping, and pulling themselves up. Providing plenty of floor time encourages these essential pre-walking skills. Restricting babies to carriers, seats and walkers for extended periods can limit their motor development.
safe and Stimulating Environment: A safe environment encourages exploration. Ensure your home is baby-proofed to provide a secure space for your baby to move freely and practice their new skills.
Assistive Devices: While walkers were popular in the past, they are now discouraged by pediatricians. Walkers can actually hinder development by interfering with proper muscle use and balance.Devices that encourage assisted walking without autonomous propulsion are now preferred instead

Nutritional Influences on Motor Skills

Nutritional health can directly impact motor skill development. Deficiencies can slow down neurological and musculosketeal system development.

Iron: Iron is critical for brain development and motor function. Iron deficiency can lead to delays in motor milestones.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports bone health and muscle function. Deficiencies can impair muscle strength and coordination.
Balanced Diet: A varied diet ensures that your baby receives the nutrients which are essential for growth and development, including those that support bones, muscles, and nerves

When to Seek Professional Help: Red Flags to Watch For

While variations in walking age are normal, certain red flags warrant professional evaluation. Consult your pediatrician if your baby meets any of the following criteria:

Not sitting independently by 9 months
Not crawling (or using an option form of mobility) by 12 months
Not pulling to stand by 12 months
Not walking independently by 18 months
Exhibits asymmetrical movements or muscle stiffness

Early intervention therapies, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, can be highly effective in addressing motor delays and helping babies reach their full potential. early intervention leads to better development outcomes.

Don’t be afraid or reluctant to find expert help. This is important for allowing your child to have the best opportunity for developing those walking skills.

Practical tips for Supporting Your Baby’s Motor Development

Parents can play an active role in supporting their baby’s motor development. Here are some evidence-based strategies:

Provide Ample Floor Time: Encourage tummy time from an early age and provide plenty of opportunities for your baby to explore on the floor.
Create a safe and Stimulating Environment: Ensure your home is baby-proofed and filled with age-appropriate toys that encourage movement.
Encourage Crawling and Creeping: Place toys slightly out of reach to motivate your baby to crawl or creep.
Provide Opportunities for Pulling to Stand: Offer stable objects for your baby to pull themselves up on.
Practice Assisted Walking: Hold your baby’s hands and help them practice walking with support.
Engage in Playful Exercises: incorporate playful exercises that strengthen leg muscles and improve balance.
Promote a healthy Diet: make sure your baby receives a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.

Case Studies: Diverse Paths to Walking

Each baby’s journey to walking is unique. Here are a few illustrative case studies:

Case Study 1: The Early Explorer: Baby A was an active crawler who loved to explore. She started pulling to stand at 9 months and took her first steps at 11 months. Her parents provided a safe and stimulating environment that encouraged her natural curiosity and movement.
Case Study 2: The Cautious Walker: Baby B was a cautious and deliberate child.He spent more time observing his surroundings than actively moving. He started walking at 15 months, after carefully assessing his balance and coordination. His parents supported his cautious approach and provided encouragement and reassurance.
Case Study 3: The Premature Star: Baby C was born prematurely at 32 weeks. She required early intervention therapy to address motor delays. With the support of physical therapists and her parents, she started walking independently at 20 months (corrected age of 16 months).

Firsthand Experiences: Parents’ Perspectives on Delayed Walking

Hearing from other parents can provide valuable insights and reassurance. Here are a few quotes from parents who have experienced delayed walking:

“I was worried when my baby wasn’t walking by her first birthday, but our pediatrician assured us that she was developing normally. She walked at 14 months, and now you can’t stop her!” – Sarah, mother of a 2-year-old
“My son was a late crawler who preferred to scoot on his bottom.He didn’t start walking until 16 months, but he was perfectly healthy and happy. We just let him develop at his own pace.” – Michael, father of a 3-year-old
“My daughter was born prematurely, and she reached all of her milestones later than her peers. Early intervention therapy made a huge difference. She’s now a thriving toddler who loves to run and play.” – Emily, mother of a 4-year-old

Walking Milestones and Development

here’s a list of walking milestones with the average age they appear. Remember that there is significant variation, but it provides a general guideline.

Milestone	Approximate Age	Description
Pullling to Stand	6-10 Months	Baby pulls up to a standing position while holding onto furniture or other stable objects.
Cruising	8-12 Months	Baby walks sideways while holding onto furniture for support.
Standing Briefly Unassisted	9-14 Months	Baby can stand alone briefly without support for a few seconds.
First Steps	9-15 Months	Baby takes a few independent steps without assistance.
Walking Independently	12-18 Months	Baby can walk independently across the room.

Debunking Common Myths About Walking

Unfortunately, some myths can surround child development, and it’s critically important to have the correct facts.

Myth: If a baby is not walking by 12 months, there is definitely something wrong.
Fact: Normal walking age varies, rarely signifies and underlying problem.
Myth: Baby walkers help babies learn to walk faster.
Fact: Walkers can hinder development by altering walking mechanics and diminishing balance.
Myth: A late walker does not become an active child
Fact: The timing of early motor milestones does not dictate later activity levels in childhood

Scientists discover why some babies learn to walk later than others