Standing Steady
Parent observes whether child can stand unsupported for 5+ seconds while distracted by play, then while holding an object. Covers standing balance milestones at 12-18mo. Three phases: free stand, stand with toy, and parent counts aloud.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Flat floor, no rugs if possible. Move furniture out of easy arm-reach. Child in bare feet or shoes — either is fine. Start with child standing while you hold them, then release.
How it works
- 1~20s
Hold your child upright — then slowly release. Count aloud: 'one, two, three...' How many seconds before they sits, falls, or grabs furniture? Does your child stand still, or does they sway and adjust? Try twice. Tell me the best count.
Watch for: Child stands alone for 5+ seconds without support
- 2~20s
Now while your child is standing, hand them a small toy. Holding an object while standing is harder — it splits attention from balance. Does your child hold the toy and stay standing, or does they drop one foot or grab furniture to compensate? Tell me.
Watch for: Child remains balanced while standing and holding an object
- 3~120s
Watch for the next 2 minutes of normal play. Does your child spontaneously pull to stand and then let go, standing independently during play? Note each time it happens. Is standing something they chooses, or only happens when placed?
Watch for: Child spontaneously stands without adult placement