What is the typical gross motor milestone for a 12-month-old?

The typical gross motor milestone for a 12-month-old is walking. At this age, many children begin to take their first independent steps, marking a significant development in their motor skills. Walking is a major achievement that not only demonstrates physical strength and coordination but also fosters further exploration and interaction with their environment.

While some infants may show signs of walking earlier or later, the majority will have begun this skill by the time they reach their first birthday. This milestone is crucial as it serves as a foundation for future gross motor skills, such as running, jumping, and climbing, which toddlers will develop as they grow. Other milestones, like stooping and recovering or sitting up, are typically achieved earlier than 12 months, and jumping on two feet generally develops after the child has become confident in walking.