Balance Developmental Milestones
This blog will discuss at what age your child should typically be hitting balance milestones. Each milestone has an age range. Each child will have their own unique timeline in which they meet these milestones. Some children might meet their milestones early/on time with no difficulty, while others may benefit from support from a physical therapist in order to progress their balance and overall development. If your child often trips and/or falls, they may benefit from a physical therapy evaluation to assess their balance skills and overall development.
7-8 months
- Sitting unsupported
9-13 months
- Standing unsupported for 3-5 seconds
- Taking independent steps
12-15 months
- Moving from sitting on the floor to standing without support
15-18 months
- Walks sideways and backwards
- Walking smoothly, turning corners, and stepping over small obstacles
2-2.5 years
- Running smoothly
- Kicking a playground ball
- Takes 3 steps on a balance beam
3 years
- Stands on one foot for 2-3 seconds
- Walks up and down the stairs with alternating feet without the railing
3.5-4 years
- Walks 8 feet on a balance beam
- Stands on one foot for 5 seconds
4-5 years
- Stands on one foot for 10 seconds
- Walks 4 feet backwards on a balance beam
- Hops on one foot for 5 consecutive hops
6 years
- Stands on one foot with eyes closed for 10 seconds
Common balance issues:
- Frequent tripping and/or falling
Difficult or unable to balance on one foot - Difficult or unable to kick a ball without holding onto something or holding your hands for support
- Difficulty or unable to independently walk on uneven surfaces
Difficulty or unable to independently step over obstacles without external support - Difficulty walking up and down the stairs
- Overall poor coordination
- Difficulty keeping up with peers
