Use Scaffolding To Teach Your Baby to Walk

Setting up manageable challenges for your child is a great way to build grit. For those of you with infants who are just learning to walk, you will love this example from a NAEYC article (http://bit.ly/2NQLE6b) that demonstrates what manageable challenges — or scaffolding — can look like:“Shayla, 11 months old, lets go of the cart she is pushing and stands alone. Her teacher, Mr. Peter, sitting nearby, says, “Hi, Shayla!” He reaches his hand toward her, and she takes one step, then another, then falls down. Shayla’s eyes open wide, and Mr. Peter says, “Boom, you fell down, but you’re okay. Do you want to try again?” Shayla reaches up her arms and Mr. Peter helps her stand up. He holds her hands while she steadies herself, then gives her two small toys to hold so that she balances on her own. He says, “Okay, Shayla, can you walk to me?” Holding tightly to the two toys, she takes three steps and reaches Mr. Peter right before she falls down. “You did it!” Mr. Peter exclaims.”

Try it out yourself! Set up a scenario where your child can pull to stand, and may attempt to let go. Wait for her to let go and when she does, use an encouraging voice and hold out your hands for her to come to you. Follow her lead and stay down on her level. If she falls, make the fall a fun part of the game. Encourage her to try again, and follow her interests.

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