Bear Walking
Between crawling and walking, babies often engage in a cute behavior known as bear walking. This movement prepares them to stand up independently.
The Transition to Standing: From Bear Walking to Standing
Your baby will transition from the bear-walking position into a semi-squat position, by walking their hands back and shifting their weight over their feet.
From the squatting position, they generate force up through their legs and push up into standing.
Making It Easier: Using a Supportive Stool
To facilitate the transition from bear-walking position to standing…
Try This:
Place a small stool or a couch cushion on the floor for your baby to put their hands on while squatting to stand.
By placing their hands up on the stool instead of on the floor, it gives your baby a little boost and it helps them find their balance in squatting. With time and practice, they may start experimenting with standing up on their own!
Bear walking is a delightful milestone in a baby's journey towards independent standing. By engaging in this unique movement pattern, babies develop the necessary strength and coordination to push up into standing positions. Remember that each baby progresses at their own pace, and this milestone marks an exciting step in their motor development.
Did you learn something new?
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P.S. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for skilled physical therapy intervention. While I am a physical therapist, I am not your child's physical therapist. If you have questions or concerns about your child's health and/or development, please contact your pediatrician.