Pulls to stand

What is this milestone?

Uses furniture to pull up to standing

Your baby uses furniture, the side of the crib, or your legs to haul themselves from a sitting or crawling position up to a standing posture.

Why it matters

Pulling to stand requires immense leg and core strength. It is the gateway to walking. This milestone also marks a new level of determination and problem-solving as they figure out the mechanics of lifting their own body weight.

What to expect leading up to it

Initially, they will pull up using mostly their arm strength and might lock their knees once standing. They often get 'stuck' standing up because they haven't yet learned how to bend their knees to sit back down safely.

How to encourage and support it

Ensure all heavy furniture (like bookshelves and dressers) is securely anchored to the wall. Help them learn to sit back down by gently bending their knees and guiding their bottom to the floor so they feel safe.

When to talk to your doctor

Tell your pediatrician if your baby is not bearing weight on their legs or pulling up on furniture by 12 months, if their legs seem very stiff or very floppy, or if they push up with only one leg. And at any age, if your baby loses a skill they already had, tell your pediatrician that week.