The moment when your baby takes his first steps is one of the most exciting stages in his growth. It's a big step (literally!) towards independence and discovering the world. At Le Biberon Français, we understand how crucial this stage is for you and your child. In this article, we offer you some practical advice on how to accompany your baby as he takes his first steps, choose the right shoes and create a safe environment for his explorations.
First steps: what age to expect?
Every baby is unique and the time at which they start to walk can vary. In general, the first steps occur between 9 and 15 months. Before walking, your baby will go through several stages, such as crawling, standing up by holding onto furniture and cruising (moving around by holding objects).
What to do when baby starts walking?
1. Creating a secure environment
2. Encourage without forcing
3. Play walking games
1. Creating a secure environment
Safety is paramount. Here are a few measures to protect your little walker:
- Remove obstacles: Keep fragile or sharp objects away from areas where baby could fall.
- Secure furniture: Fix heavy furniture to the walls to prevent it from tipping over if baby hangs on it. Add table corner protectors, socket covers, etc.
- Use safety barriers: Place barriers at stairs and in rooms that are not suitable for babies.
2. Encourage without forcing
Let your baby discover walking at his own pace. Encourage him with smiles and applause, but never force him to walk before he's ready. Emotional support is just as important as physical support.
3. Play walking games
Simple games can help your baby feel more comfortable when walking:
- Roll a ball: Encourage baby to follow the ball as he walks.
- Chasing game: Stay a few paces away and encourage him to join you.
- Assisted walking: stand behind your child, place your hands around their arms and pull them into a standing position.
Choosing the right baby shoes
Barefoot or shoes?
During the first few months of walking, it's best to let your baby walk barefoot or with non-slip socks indoors. This allows his feet to grow naturally, developing his small muscles and learning to balance. Up until the age of two, his little feet are mainly made up of flexible cartilage.
When should I buy shoes?
When baby starts walking outside regularly, it's time to think about shoes. Here are some tips for choosing the right shoes:
1. Flexibility
Shoes should be flexible enough to allow your feet to move freely.
2. Breathability
Choose materials that allow feet to breathe, such as leather or technical fabrics.
3. Right size
Make sure the shoes are neither too tight nor too wide. A professional can measure your baby's feet to help you choose the right size.
4. Non-slip soles
To prevent slipping, the soles must be non-slip.
How do I know if my shoes are suitable?
- Regular size checks: Baby's feet grow quickly. Check every month that the shoes are not too small.
- Observe your child's gait: If your baby seems uncomfortable or walks in an unusual way, the shoes may not be suitable.
- Always go for professional shoes, because looks are all very well, and at Le biberon Français we never neglect them, but the most important thing is quality and, above all, the anatomical aspects.
Le Biberon Français products to accompany baby
At Le Biberon Français, we offer a range of products designed to accompany your baby through the first stages of life, with bottles specially designed for newborns, physiological soothers and many other new products.
Watching your baby take his first steps is an unforgettable experience. As a parent, you can help them through this exciting stage by creating a safe environment, encouraging them without pressure and choosing the right shoes. At Le Biberon Français, we're delighted to support you on this wonderful adventure of parenthood. Enjoy every moment and celebrate every step forward with your little adventurer!
