The Key Factor That Determines When Your Child Will Take Their First Steps

A baby’s first wobbly steps are a source of pride for many parents. 

A child’s environment has long been associated with when they will walk.1 Yet, a groundbreaking study from the University of Surrey discovered that genetics also play a significant role.2

What does this research mean for parents and their babies? Let’s break it down.

What the Study Reveals About a Baby’s First Steps 

Study authors, Anna Gui, PhD, a researcher at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, and Angelica Ronald, PhD, professor of psychology and genetics at the University of Surrey, and their research team analyzed the genetic information of more than 70,000 infants. 

They identified 11 genetic markers that may influence a child’s brain development from birth and the timing of independent walking. The study revealed that genetics account for nearly 25% of the variation in this milestone.

The study also revealed some good news for late walkers.

While some previous studies linked early walking to higher achievement later in life, this study found a correlation between the genes influencing later walking and those associated with higher educational attainment. The research also indicates that late walking may be genetically linked to a decreased chance of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Keep in mind, the research did not define what's considered late walking.

“What we think it might mean is that children who are genetically predisposed to be a bit more active and move around more are also going to walk a bit earlier,” explain both Dr. Gui and Dr. Ronald. “It’s important to clarify that the association is significant but modest. Therefore, we don’t expect all early walkers to have ADHD, or all people with ADHD to have walked early. But there is a modest overlap in the genetic variation involved, which may help understand child development a bit further."

How the Environment Shapes Walking

A child’s genes may influence when they walk, but so does their environment. Dr. Gui and Dr. Ronald recommend that children need a nutritious, energy-sustaining diet and ample space to practice their walking skills. 

Michael Glazier, MD, a pediatrician and chief medical officer for Bluebird Kids Health, agrees that a nourishing diet matters, as malnourishment can result in "decreased energy, decreased engagement with the environment, decreased muscle strength, and decreased stamina.”

But that’s not all parents should focus on. 

“Babies who are constantly held or placed in swings or other constrained environments do not get the opportunity to engage in the physical exploration that is not just helpful but necessary for learning to walk,” explains Dr. Glazier.

In contrast, he says, infants in safe, open spaces who can explore on their own may develop walking skills earlier.

Encourage your child to play and explore to help them develop their motor skills. Dr. Glazier reassures parents that it’s OK if their child is upset when a toy is out of reach—they need to learn to problem-solve and strengthen their muscles. 

Source: https://www.parents.com/genes-and-when-a-baby-walks-11738671