Word Steps

What you'll need

Safe indoor staircase with clear steps. Print words: dog, door, duck, drum, doll (one per step). Parent should be positioned to support child if needed. Ensure stairs are clean and free of obstacles.

How it works

1. 1~30s

   Start at the top step with your child. Hold their hand for support if needed, and begin walking down slowly. As your child steps on the first word, encourage them to say it aloud — 'dog!' Watch how your child navigates this first step down. Does they step with one foot then bring the other to the same step, or does they alternate feet to the next step? Tell me what you notice.

   Watch for: Child walks down stairs using alternating foot pattern — one foot per step — rather than bringing both feet to each step.

2. 2~35s

   Now continue down a few more steps, saying each word as you go. This time, watch your child's feet closely — especially as they places each foot on the step. Does they use a heel-to-toe motion, rolling from heel to ball of foot? Or does they place their whole foot flat? The heel-to-toe pattern shows mature walking coordination. What do you see?

   Watch for: Child demonstrates heel-to-toe walking pattern — heel contacts step first, then rolls to toe during stair descent.

3. 3~40s

   Let's try the last few steps with less support. If your child feels confident, try releasing their hand briefly or just keeping your hand nearby for balance. Encourage them to say the words independently as they steps. Watch how your child manages without full hand-holding — does they maintain alternating feet? Does they look at the steps or your face for reassurance?

   Watch for: Child navigates stairs with minimal assistance — maintains alternating feet and balance without holding on.

What this develops

• ◆Milestone
  Climbing and Vertical Movement

  Movementprimary

Visual example