Runs with coordination
Typical Timing & Development Window
Visual Timeline & Milestone Benchmarks
What these numbers mean
The average age babies first begin showing early signs of this skill. Before this, it's simply too early — there's nothing to worry about.
The midpoint age: half of babies have reached this milestone by here, half a little later. It's a typical target, not a deadline.
How spread out the timing is. About two-thirds of babies achieve it within one standard deviation of the median (the shaded band, wk 88–104). Wide bands mean a normal range of variation.
A gentle check-in point. If your baby hasn't shown this by around here, it can be worth mentioning to your pediatrician — most often it's still perfectly fine, just later.
About this milestone
The toddler runs forward with a coordinated gait, during which both feet are briefly off the ground simultaneously. This demonstrates advanced lower-extremity strength, dynamic balance, and motor planning. It indicates mature neuromuscular control of the hips, knees, and ankles.
- 1. Play chasing games like 'I'm going to catch you!' in a spacious, grassy backyard or a soft-surface playground.
- 2. Use low, soft obstacles (like pool noodles or flat floor mats) for the toddler to run toward and step over.
- 3. Roll a large ball across the grass and encourage the toddler to run and catch up to it before it stops.
- 4. Play active music with varying tempos, encouraging the toddler to run fast when the music speeds up.
- 1. Avoid running on hard, slippery surfaces like wood or tile floors, which can lead to painful slips and discourage further attempts.
- 2. Do not pull or jerk the toddler's arm to help them run or prevent a fall, as this can cause elbow subluxation (nursemaid's elbow).
- 3. Avoid overprotecting the toddler from small, minor tumbles on grass, which are essential for learning balance and boundary limits.