Take a Stand! How to Help Baby Stand on Their Own
Babies typically begin standing with support between 7–12 months, with independent standing happening between 9-15 months.
You can help Baby learn to stand by doing motor activities that strengthen key muscle groups, having playdates with babies that can model standing, or using toys as motivation.
Baby will fall a lot while learning to stand, so be sure to practice on soft surfaces free of hazards and stay close at all times.
Wondering when babies stand on their own? Everyone makes a big fuss over Baby’s first steps—but let’s hear it for Baby’s first stand! It may not be a motor skill with quite as much celebration, but hey, it’s still a pretty big deal!
So, when do babies start standing with support?
Around 7–12 months, many babies start pulling themselves up to stand. Their first several attempts at standing usually come with a little help—like from a couch, coffee table, or your own legs.
This phase is all about building confidence and balance, with Baby holding on tight and figuring out how to stay upright without toppling over like a tiny, giggling block tower.
When will Baby stand without support?
This can happen as early as 9 months, but for many babies it may be closer to 12 months or even a bit later. And that’s ok! Every baby gets the hang of standing differently.
At first, Baby may only stand by themselves for a second or two—just long enough for you to say “Look! You’re doing it!” before they plop down. With practice, their balance and endurance will improve, but don’t expect Baby to start standing all the time. Baby may not stand solo regularly until they are between 12 and 15 months old. Once they get comfortable with it, you may see Baby’s first steps!
What does Baby need to stand independently?
Baby needs strong legs, hips, and core muscles to stand on their own. These are the same muscles they use for rolling, sitting, and crawling. Basically, every wiggle and scoot up to this point has been prepping them for the big stand! You can help Baby strengthen those key muscle groups by keeping them active with games that help them meet motor milestones!
How can you help Baby stand without support?
Here are some tips:
Keep up with Baby’s activities on the Play page. These pediatric-therapist-approved games help Baby build the muscles and coordination needed for standing (it’s exercise that feels like playtime!).
Give Baby small, lightweight toys they can hold while standing. This will help them feel they are “holding onto” something and give them the confidence to stay standing longer!
Move toys onto low surfaces within Baby’s reach. For example, try putting Baby’s favorite toy on the couch while they’re on the ground. This can motivate Baby to move to a standing position so they can play with the toy!
Play with other babies their age or slightly older who are standing. They will see this behavior, and maybe want to try it too.
Focus on strengthening Baby’s vestibular sense. This helps with balance and standing up straight. Ways to do this include rocking Baby, carrying them in a variety of positions, and allowing them to safely try different motor movements, like climbing over pillows.
Watch for more tips on encouraging Baby to stand independently!
What do you do if Baby falls?
Remember, it's typical for Baby to fall while they’re learning to stand! And it’ll probably happen a lot in the first few months. It’s all part of learning how their body works and mastering those balance skills!
When it happens, try to stay calm. Babies often take emotional cues from others, so if they see you not make a big deal of it, Baby may not get upset either (meltdown avoided!). As long as there is no sign of injury or Baby doesn’t need your help, give them a moment to gather themselves, and then get back to moving!
Because this stage is full of baby tumbles, safety is key! Here are some safety tips while Baby is learning to stand:
Stick to soft flooring while Baby is first getting the hang of things (remove socks if Baby is practicing on harder surfaces).
Avoid stairs (here’s when Baby can start climbing them safely).
Be within reach of Baby.
Keep them away from hard or sharp objects.
Only let them stand or walk on the ground, rather than on high surfaces like beds or couches.
Make sure any nearby furniture is weighted or attached to the floor/wall, in case Baby tries to grab on while falling, or pulls themselves up using the furniture.
Remember, when Baby starts standing and walking on their own, it’s time to baby proof! Check out these baby-proofing tips to keep your home safe.
