E18 b: Hypermobility in Babies and Children (Part 2): Toe Walking, Delayed Walking, Sensory Issues & What Parents Can Do

Is your baby not standing yet? Refusing to put their feet down? Walking on their toes? Or just feeling very floppy compared to other babies?In this episode of the Best For Baby Podcast, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa  continues the hypermobility series and explains what happens next as hypermobile babies get older and why many of them struggle with standing, walking, trips and falls.If you listened to last week’s episode, this is the next step. And if you’re currently worried that your baby isn’t hitting milestones, this episode will help you understand what’s going on and what you can do at home to support them.In this episode you’ll learn:Why hypermobile babies often struggle to stand or walkWhat it means if your baby refuses to put their feet on the groundThe real reason some hypermobile babies walk on their toesWhy delayed walking doesn’t always mean something is “wrong”How sensory sensitivity in the feet affects standing and walkingWhat physiotherapy actually focuses on for hypermobile babiesWhether shoes, insoles or “first walkers” really helpSimple ways you can help your baby at homeKey takeaways for parentsHypermobility doesn’t just affect joints, it also affects muscle strength, coordination and body awareness. That’s why many hypermobile babies struggle with standing, crawling and walking.The most important thing to remember is this: delayed walking does not automatically mean a serious problem. Many hypermobile babies simply need the right support, strengthening and sensory preparation.The goal isn’t to “force milestones” — it’s to help your baby build strength, confidence and body awareness in a calm, gentle way.This episode is part of a series, so please make sure you listen to Part 1 first!Next week’s episode will cover what happens when hypermobile children are older and begin experiencing pain, fatigue and other challenges, and what parents can do about it.Links mentioned:Trunki Harness: Link to purchase here, link for instructions hereConnect with Lisa here!For help on: Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here!Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!