Child Not Walking by 14 Months: When to Worry & What to Do

Independent walking typically emerges 9–18 months (median ~12 months). Not walking at 14 months warrants evaluation but is not necessarily pathological.

Recommended Steps

1. Pediatrician Visit: Assess tone, strength, reflexes, symmetry, developmental milestones (pull to stand, cruise, bear weight).
2. Encourage Practice: Floor time, push toys, supported standing, barefoot on varied surfaces.
3. Rule Out Red Flags: Asymmetry, toe-walking only, regression, hypotonia/hypertonia, no babbling/gesturing.

Common Benign Variants

• Late bloomer (family history)
• Cautious temperament
• Excessive carrying/container use (limited floor time)

When to Refer

• Not walking by 18 months
• Any neurologic abnormality on exam
• Global developmental delay

Early intervention (PT) if indicated improves outcomes. Most late walkers catch up fully.