When Should Babies Start Crawling or Walking? Developmental Milestones Every Parent Should Know

May 26, 2025

Watching your baby grow and hit major milestones is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood 👶💫. Among the biggest questions parents ask are:
👉 When should my baby start crawling?
👉 When will my baby take their first steps?

Every child develops at their own pace, but understanding the average timeline and what to look out for can help you support your little one’s journey — and know when to check in with a pediatrician 🩺.

Let’s break it down!

🐛 When Do Babies Start Crawling?

Most babies begin crawling between 6 to 10 months.
Here are a few common crawling styles you might see:

Classic crawl: Hands and knees movement
Commando crawl: Pulling themselves along the floor
Bear crawl: Walking on hands and feet
Bottom scoot: Scooting around on their bum

🔄 Some babies skip crawling entirely and move straight to standing or cruising — totally normal!

🚩 Signs Baby Is Getting Ready to Crawl:

Pushing up during tummy time
Rocking back and forth on hands and knees
Reaching and pivoting toward toys
Rolling over easily

💡 Tip: Encourage crawling by giving your baby plenty of floor time, placing toys just out of reach, and offering lots of praise!

🚶 When Do Babies Start Walking?

Babies usually take their first steps between 9 and 18 months.
This wide range is completely normal — some early walkers start at 9 months, while others may take their time.

🧠 Stages Before Walking:

Pulling up to stand – ~8 to 10 months
Cruising (walking while holding furniture) – ~9 to 12 months
Standing unaided – ~10 to 14 months
First independent steps – ~12 to 15 months

🎉 Once those first wobbly steps happen, your baby will quickly gain confidence and coordination!

🧸 How to Support Crawling & Walking Development

✅ Tummy time from day one – strengthens neck, arms, and core
✅ Encourage reaching and movement – place toys strategically
✅ Barefoot at home – helps build balance and muscle
✅ Provide safe space to move – clear floor, baby-proofed area
✅ Use push toys/walkers (not seated walkers) – to support balance

🕒 What If My Baby Isn’t Crawling or Walking Yet?

🚨 It’s important not to panic — but do talk to your pediatrician if:

Baby isn’t sitting without help by 9 months
Not attempting to crawl by 12 months
Not bearing weight on legs by 12 months
Not walking by 18 months
Any signs of muscle weakness or stiffness

Remember: All babies develop on their own timeline — genetics, personality, and environment all play a role!

📝 Final Thoughts

While average timelines are helpful, they’re not rules.
Your baby might be a speedy crawler or skip crawling altogether. They might walk early — or wait until they feel 100% confident.

Your job? 💛 Support them, cheer them on, and create a safe space to explore the world at their own pace.