If someone had told me years ago that my baby would be walking—and practically running—by the time he was just 9 months old, I would have burst out laughing. My only reference for baby milestones was the tale my parents loved to share about me: I didn’t take my first steps until I was 18 months old. I crawled for what felt like forever, and even when I was capable of walking, I’d cling to furniture, walls, or my parents’ hands like a little koala. Thankfully, there was nothing physically wrong with me; I just had a cautious nature that was clear even back then.
My first son hit his developmental milestones right on schedule, just like the books recommended (which makes sense given his perfectionist tendencies). But my second son? He practically popped out of the womb ready to walk. With an older brother to keep up with, I swear he was army crawling within weeks. By 4 months, he was rocking on all fours, and at 5 months, he was speed-crawling all over the house. His first meal? A handful of dirt from the welcome mat—he was just too quick for me to catch him!
Still, I was completely astounded when he began pulling himself up onto the coffee table at 6 months, cruising around the furniture like a little bandit by 7 months, and standing solo by 8 months. I honestly thought it was all a fluke.
Here’s what raced through my mind when it finally clicked that my tiny baby was about to take off on his own:
- No way!
The first reaction to having an early walker is pure disbelief. In hindsight, it’s obvious it was coming, but at the moment, it’s hard to accept that your squishy little bundle of joy is about to become a mobile whirlwind. - Oh crap, our home is a disaster zone.
Once he starts walking, you realize it’s time for serious baby-proofing. Crawlers can’t reach as many dangerous spots as walkers can, and once they start walking, the climbing phase hits, which is a whole different level of chaos. Seriously, it’s like living with a tiny daredevil! - I’m never leaving the house again.
Early walkers tend to have adventurous spirits and want to practice their newfound skills at every opportunity. Running errands can become a real hassle. Sorry, little one, but walking barefoot in the grocery store is a no-go. And I’m definitely not letting you run wild at the doctor’s office, especially not towards that snotty toddler in the corner! - Can we please stop discussing it?
Your child’s early walking will become the hot topic of every conversation, and everyone will have an opinion. Thanks, but I really don’t need to hear, “Wow, you’ve got your hands full!” or “Good luck keeping up!” I’m well aware of the chaos that comes with it. - What to put on those tiny feet?
I thought I could stretch the baby socks and booties phase, but my little one had other ideas. He wanted to walk everywhere, so I had to hit the stores for baby shoes immediately (which, by the way, are super cute!). - My baby is amazing! He’s got superpowers!
Eventually, you can’t help but feel a bit proud. I mean, your baby must be a genius, or at least an alien with some exceptional skills! - Where did my little baby go? I want my baby back!
Watching your baby walk early can tug at your heartstrings. It feels like they’re growing up way too soon, and you just want them to remain your little angel for a bit longer. Fortunately, you soon realize that even early walkers still need their mommies as much as any other baby. - My baby is a hazard to other babies!
You quickly notice that your chunky-legged little walker is a monster compared to peers — a miniature version of Chucky! You’ll find yourself warning other parents that their babies might get stepped on or climbed over, but there’s only so much you can do. - He’s just a regular kid who walked early.
After a few months, all the other babies will catch up, and walking will become the norm. Phew!
Years down the line, you’ll realize that milestone moments like these don’t hold as much weight as they seem to at the time. What stands out more is the shock and awe of seeing your baby zoom off much earlier than expected.
If you’re interested in learning more about early walking and other parenting topics, check out this resource on home insemination for additional insights.
In summary, while having an early walker can be a whirlwind of surprises and challenges, it also offers a glimpse into the adventurous personality traits that may continue as they grow. Remember, whether your child hits milestones early or late, the journey is what truly matters!