Why Occasional Toe Walking Is Normal (and Helpful!) in the First Two Years

Key Takeaways:

• Occasional toe walking is important to build calf muscles for running & jumping, improve balance, and support foot arch development.

• Toe walking is problematic if it is persistent, especially after 2 years old.

• Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric physical therapist if you’re concerned about how often your child walks on their toes.

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If your little one is spending time walking around on their tiptoes, you’re definitely not alone! Many parents notice their toddler suddenly popping up onto their toes while exploring, reaching, or just playing — and it can look a little funny or even worrying at first. The good news? Intermittent toe walking is actually a normal and important part of early development during the first couple of years.

Why Babies and Toddlers Walk on Their Toes

During the early stages of walking — usually between 12 and 24 months — children are still figuring out how to balance and move in all kinds of ways. Sometimes that means flat-foot walking, sometimes wobbling side to side, and sometimes going up on their toes.

This toe walking isn’t usually a sign of a problem — it’s your toddler’s way of exploring their body and practicing new movements. It’s also common for them to go on their toes when they’re excited, trying to reach for something high, or just enjoying the sensation of “being tall.”

How Going on Toes Helps Muscle Development

Pushing up onto the toes is a workout for growing legs! Here’s how it helps:

• Builds strong calf muscles: Rising up on the toes activates the calf muscles (the gastrocnemius and soleus). This strength is important for running, jumping, and climbing later on.

• Improves balance and ankle control: Balancing on toes challenges your child’s stability and coordination, helping them learn how to adjust and steady their bodies.

• Encourages healthy foot development: Switching between heels down and toes up helps stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet and ankles, which supports arch development.

• Prepares for big movement milestones: The strength gained from toe walking helps with future skills like hopping, skipping, and sprinting.

When to Keep an Eye On It

It’s perfectly normal for toddlers to go through phases of toe walking — especially when they’re just learning to walk or during play. However, if your child always walks on their toes, especially after age 2, or if they can’t put their heels down comfortably, it’s a good idea to mention it to your pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist. Persistent toe walking can sometimes be linked to tight muscles or other developmental issues, but in most cases, it’s just a temporary phase.

The Bottom Line

Occasional toe walking in the first two years of life is a normal and healthy part of learning to move. It helps build strong calves, improves balance, and prepares your child for the next big adventures in movement. So when you see those tiny toes tiptoeing across the floor — know that they’re working hard and growing strong with every step!