Bending and stretching - that’s how we get down the stairs

What to do 

1. When you are coming downstairs, invite your toddler to bring one leg down at a time while holding a handrail.  
2. When the first leg extends, support your toddler to keep their knee slightly bent; this offers a springy landing.  
3. Once the first foot has landed on the stairs, encourage them to move their second leg down. 
4. Encourage your toddler to move down to the next step using the same process. 

You might need to stand in front of your toddler or hold their hand for extra moral support and for their safety. 

Good to know 

Toddlers usually prefer to extend their weaker leg first, while the stronger leg bends, bearing the weight and doing all the work.