Pulling to Standing IS NOT a Movement Lesson™ Milestone!
Aug 04, 2026
While pulling to stand is celebrated as a developmental milestone in the US, it's not the most efficient or safest way for a child to learn to stand. Here's why:
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Pelvic Control is Key: Getting up through the pelvis, by rotating and shifting their weight, helps children develop core strength, balance, and coordination. This is essential for all sorts of movements, not just standing.
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Getting Out of Standing: Pulling up to stand often means a child doesn't know how to get back down again. This can lead to them getting stuck or resorting to falling, which can be scary and potentially cause injuries.
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Playful Exploration: When children can get in and out of standing with ease, they are free to explore their environment more dynamically. They can squat, reach, and move in various ways during play, fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills.
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Preventing Future Problems: A strong pelvic core sets the foundation for good posture, efficient movement, and injury prevention later in life.
Here's how it should ideally look:
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The child starts in a low squat or sitting position.
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They use their pelvis to shift weight to allow one leg to bend into position to stand. This naturally brings their pelvis forward and under their body.
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To get back down, they reverse the movement, controlling their descent with their legs and core.
It's important for parents and caregivers to encourage this kind of movement by providing opportunities for floor play and avoiding excessive use of baby equipment that restricts movement. If you have concerns about your child's development, it's always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician or a physical therapist.
Meanwhile, click HERE to do our Pre-Standing, Pre-Walking course to help your baby towards optimal movement.
