At what age should a child be able to walk independently?

The milestone for walking independently typically occurs between 12 to 15 months of age. At this stage in development, many children have sufficiently developed their muscle strength, balance, and coordination, allowing them to take their first steps without support. This ability marks an important transition in a child's physical development, as it not only enhances mobility but also encourages exploration and independence.

While some children may start walking as early as 10 to 12 months, the average range for achieving this milestone is commonly accepted as being closer to 12 to 15 months. This allows for the natural variations in development that occur among children, as each child grows and learns at their own pace. Factors influencing when a child begins to walk can include personality, environment, and opportunities for practice.

The earlier ages listed may represent when some infants can start pulling up, cruising along furniture, or even taking a few steps while holding onto something for support, but consistent and independent walking typically develops a bit later. The timeframe of 15 to 18 months may be considered late for walking independently, as most children would have achieved this milestone by then.