Unfolding The Canvas of Learning: Learning Step 13

Within just a month or two of crawling, a child begins to sit up and subsequently starts standing by holding onto walls or other objects. These actions play a crucial role in the child's brain development, serving as the foundation for motor movements and their coordination. The impact of such movements is currently being researched under the field of Kinesiology.

When a child attempts to stand by holding onto something, it exemplifies their innate drive to learn by observing others. The internal motivation provides the necessary energy and self-awareness for this action. Therefore, when children engage in these attempts, parents should be present to appreciate and encourage them; this fosters the child's self-confidence and a courageous attitude.

Generally, parents should not display fear or anxiety when their child is learning to stand or walk, as this can hinder the child's efforts and development. Instead, they should remain close by and offer support for the child's actions.

Unlike humans, the young of many other species begin to stand and walk within minutes of birth. In contrast, a human child typically begins to walk only after about ten months. Furthermore, we often assist children in learning to walk by holding their hands or walking alongside them.

Thus, training plays a vital role in human development and learning. There are both advantages and disadvantages to training in the context of learning; we shall explore these later.

Child psychologists in the United States have expressed differing opinions regarding the use of baby walkers during this developmental stage. It is believed that such practices can hinder the development of a child's self-confidence and foster a dependency on external help for future endeavors. Therefore, when a child begins to walk, it is essential for parents to support this process, viewing it as an opportunity to cultivate self-confidence, courage, and fearlessness.

Experts state that the pace of brain development accelerates when a child begins to learn to walk. This process boosts blood circulation and muscle growth, while also stimulating the drive for cognition and understanding. The child begins to move from place to place to explore objects, expressing the joy and distress associated with these experiences. The brain's pleasure and pain centers begin to facilitate a more rapid expression of emotions. At this stage, it is crucial for parents to closely observe and nurture the child's movements, the impact of their walking practice, and the emotions they express.

It is important to let children walk barefoot when they are first learning. Experts advise against putting shoes on children at this stage. Direct contact between the feet and the ground and the resulting pressure is necessary to promote healthy blood circulation, establish balanced movement between the legs, and achieve stability while standing. It is also believed that wearing tight-fitting shoes can negatively affect not only foot development but also brain development.

Once a child has started walking, does that mean they do not need to go to school?