When Do Infants Start Standing? The Journey to Baby’s First Steps

Your baby is constantly growing and surprising you with new skills—but few are as exciting as those wobbly moments when they begin to stand. So, when do infants start standing? The answer depends on their unique pace, but most babies hit this milestone between 9 to 12 months.

Standing is a huge part of your baby’s physical development—and it’s the crucial bridge between crawling and walking. Let’s break down what to expect, how to support your baby’s progress, and what signs show they’re almost ready for those first big steps.

When Do Infants Typically Start Standing?

Most babies begin pulling themselves up to stand around 9 to 12 months, but the journey actually starts long before that—with core strength, balance, and leg stability developing across many months. Before your baby starts standing, they typically go through crawling milestones. Learn when babies start crawling and how it helps build the strength needed for standing and walking.

Key standing milestone moments include:

• 4–6 months: Supporting weight when held upright
• 6–9 months: Rocking on hands and knees, bouncing while held
• 9–12 months: Pulling up to stand using furniture or caregiver support

Some may try earlier, others a bit later—but the standing milestone is more about progress than perfection. At 9 months, your baby is likely showing signs of increased strength and coordination. Explore more about your baby’s growth at 9 months to track these exciting developmental milestones.

Signs Your Baby Is Ready to Stand

Not sure if your little one is on the move? Look for these early clues:

• Pushing up from tummy time with strong arms
• Reaching to pull on objects from a seated position
• Showing interest in standing when held upright

If you notice your newborn trying to stand during reflex moments, it’s not true standing yet—but it’s a sign their muscles are activating.

What Is Pull-to-Stand and Why Is It Important?

One of the most exciting moments is when your baby pulls themselves upright using furniture, crib bars, or your hands. This is known as pull-to-stand development and typically appears between 8 to 10 months.

It helps babies:

• Strengthen core and leg muscles
• Build balance and coordination
• Prepare for cruising and, eventually, walking

Let them practice in safe spaces—think padded floors and sturdy low furniture. As your baby strengthens their muscles and develops coordination, their cognitive skills are also evolving.

Cruising and Standing: What Comes Next?

Once your baby has mastered standing, cruising often follows. This means they’ll move side-to-side while holding onto surfaces, like the edge of the couch or a play table.

Cruising and standing milestones are key indicators that walking is just around the corner. Encourage this phase by:

• Offering safe, grippable surfaces
• Going barefoot indoors to improve grip and balance
• Celebrating small wins like brief independent stands

Yes, standing before walking is a natural part of development—and a major confidence builder. Once your baby masters standing and cruising, walking is the next exciting milestone. Learn how to recognize the 5 signs that your baby is about to walk and prepare for those first independent steps.”

🎥 Support Learning with Playful Exploration

Want to engage your baby in body awareness while they explore standing and movement? Try pairing their physical development with educational play.

Title: Guess the Body Part Challenge | Match it with Flashcards | Color Pencil TV

This interactive video is perfect for babies beginning to recognize and control their bodies. It supports early word association, visual learning, and fun motor play—all while keeping your little one entertained.

Expert Parenting Tip

Standing is a skill built through practice, not pressure.
The best thing you can do is provide a safe environment and let your baby explore at their own pace. Avoid walkers and devices that restrict natural movement—instead, cheer them on with love and encouragement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. When do infants start standing on their own?

Most babies begin pulling up to stand around 9 to 12 months, but timelines can vary.

2. What are signs my baby is ready to stand?

Strong push-ups during tummy time, pulling on objects, and interest in upright play are good indicators.

3. How do I help my baby learn to stand?

Encourage tummy time, let them play near sturdy furniture, and offer hands for balance when needed.

4. What comes after standing?

Cruising (side-to-side movement while holding furniture) usually follows, then independent steps.

5. Is it normal if my baby isn’t standing by 12 months?

Every baby develops at their own pace. If there are no other motor delays, it’s usually not a concern—but check with your pediatrician for reassurance.