Which child in a well‑baby clinic requires follow‑up due to a delay in ambulation?

• A. 9 months old who is late to walk
• B. 18 months old who needs support to ambulate
• C. 24 months old who is on target for walking
• D. 12 months old who is cruising along furniture

Answer: (B)

Understanding walking milestones helps identify delays in gross motor development. Most children learn to walk independently between about 12 and 15 months, and by around 18 months independent walking should be established. If a child still needs support to ambulate at 18 months, that signals a delay in that milestone and warrants follow-up to assess for potential neuromuscular or developmental issues and to arrange early intervention as needed. Cruising along furniture at 12 months is a normal precursor to walking, and being on target for walking at 24 months is within the expected range. While a 9-month-old isn’t yet walking, that is not typically considered a delay, since walking isn’t expected at that age.