At what age does a healthy child typically begin walking independently?

GROSS MOTOR MILESTONES for walking: SITTING independently: 6-8 months; PULLING TO STAND: 8-10 months; CRUISING (walking while holding furniture): 9-12 months; STANDING ALONE briefly: 10-12 months; FIRST INDEPENDENT STEPS: 9-12 months (range); WALKING WELL: 12-15 months (most children); RED FLAG: Not walking by 18 months requires developmental evaluation. DENVER DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING covers motor, language, personal-social, and fine motor milestones. NCLEX APPLICATION: Nurses assess developmental milestones at well-child visits; anticipatory guidance helps parents know what to expect; referral when milestones are significantly delayed. Remember the milestones vary — some children walk at 9 months, others at 15 months — the 18-month threshold is the concern threshold, not a pathology diagnosis.