Learning to walk: 7 tips on how you can support your child
The first steps are tedious and sometimes quite frustrating. With a few very simple means, you can help your child to ensure that this really important step in life is healthy and free of damage. We explain how here.
It’s a small step for mankind – but a big one for your child. When it learns to walk, the world shows itself from a completely new perspective. Not only that this whole top-down of the adults finally has an end. Your child is now also much more agile, independent and mobile – it matures from baby to toddler. You can support your child with our tips:
1. Be playful
Sit on the ground and open your arms – that is the best motivation for children to learn to walk. If they are a bit advanced, tracks made of chalk or strings that your child can run along are also great fun. In any case, running for children is a game like any other. That’s the easiest way to learn.
2. Give your child confidence
Your motivation, your shout of joy, your smile – your child sees all of this and knows that it has done something right. Psychologically, parental praise is the best motivation for children. This also means that they can achieve things “all by themselves” and proudly present the result to their parents. How long does it take your child to wander around the couch?
3. Instill security in your child
This not only means corner protectors for chairs and shelves, but also the feeling of security that you as a parent can convey. Because even if it is sometimes difficult – patience gives your child the security that you are there when things get tough.
4. Take enough breaks and rest
Some kids get really ambitious, but champions don’t just fall out of the sky. That’s why you can easily make sure that your child gets enough breaks by distracting them from time to time. A game at the table, a snuggle, a look out of the window – it will be a real treat for the delicate muscles and young bones.
5. Also consider the neurological developments
Many children take their first steps around their first birthday. In front of them, they pull themselves up on objects or bars and practice standing. The newly formed neurons, which mediate between the brain and the leg, then give the decisive impulse to start running. However, running requires 600 different muscles. That’s why it sometimes takes a lot of time and, above all, a lot of pop flops to make all these connections. In the meantime, take a look at your child’s incredibly high tolerance for frustration.
6. Avoid walking aids
Caution, risk of injury! The so-called “Gehfrei” – a walker – inhibits the formation of the so important running muscles. The best tools for learning to walk are still mom or dad’s hands. Alternatively, trolleys with wheels or small doll’s prams can bring a lot of joy.
7. Be patient
Some children just don’t feel like running – or they don’t feel brave enough for this big challenge. That’s okay. If your child is still sitting around on his cute diaper butt at 18 months, then there is no point in rushing him. give him time And ask around in the family. Sometimes laziness like this can be inherited. If you still want to be sure, you can simply ask your pediatrician.
