It sneaks up on you, one day your baby is lying sweetly on their playmat, and the next, they’re grabbing the edge of the crib with laser focus and hoisting themselves up with all their might. Cue your proud gasp and maybe a tiny jolt of panic as you realize: standing means walking isn’t too far off.

Pulling to stand is one of those major baby milestones that feels like a leap toward toddlerhood. It’s also a sign that your little one is developing strength, balance, and coordination, all of which lay the groundwork for crawling, cruising, and walking.

If you’re wondering “Is it too early? Too late? Are we getting close?”, take a breath. Here’s what to expect, the signs to watch for, and simple ways you can support your baby’s journey (without any pressure to rush the process).

This blog is also backed with expert insights from Marielle Marquez, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Feeding & Swallowing Specialist, Founder at Thrive Little. 

When do babies typically pull to stand?

Most babies start pulling to stand somewhere between 8 and 10 months, but that window is just a general guide. Some adventurous little climbers might try earlier (around 6 – 7 months), especially if they’re motivated by curiosity (or a favorite toy just out of reach). 

According to HealthyChildren.Org, babies typically start pulling up to stand between 8 to 12 months. Remember, all babies develop at their own pace. If your pediatrician isn’t concerned, try not to stress about the timeline. 

What’s happening in your baby’s brain and body when they pull to stand?

Pulling to stand may look like just a physical feat, but under the surface, it’s a complex symphony of brain, muscle, and nerve development.

Motor cortex and memory muscle 

The act of pulling up involves coordinated activation of the brain’s motor cortex, which sends signals through the spinal cord to activate muscles in the arms, core, and legs. With repetition, these movements become part of your baby’s muscle memory, paving the way for cruising and walking.

Proprioception and body awareness

Your baby is developing proprioception, the ability to sense where their body is in space. This internal GPS helps them judge distance, balance on one foot while lifting the other, and grip surfaces securely. These skills are essential not just for standing but for future movements like climbing stairs or jumping.

Neural connections and problem-solving

Standing up also engages your baby’s prefrontal cortex, where planning and decision-making happen. Figuring out how to get from sitting to standing is an early exercise in executive function—a brain skill set that includes focus, persistence, and self-regulation.

Signs your baby is getting close to pulling up

Research shared by The Healthy Children Org highlights that, like all motor milestones, learning to stand is a gradual process that unfolds in stages.

• Sit without support: They’ve mastered the art of balance from a seated position.
  
• Push up from tummy time: That upper body strength is a huge part of pulling up.
  
• Rock on hands and knees: A sign their core muscles are firing up.
  
• Pull up to knees: They may stop at a kneeling position first before going all the way up.
  
• Reach for furniture or crib rails: They’re starting to explore with purpose.
  

You might also notice your baby getting incredibly determined, grunting, trying again and again, even if they topple over. That’s not just cute (okay, it totally is), it’s their developing perseverance and motor planning in action.

Why this milestone matters

Pulling to stand isn’t just a strength or balance milestone, it’s a brain milestone too. Your baby is problem-solving, assessing their environment, and learning to control their body in space (what experts call “proprioception”).

It’s also a major confidence booster. Every time they rise up and see the world from a new height? That’s empowerment. That’s your baby realizing, “Hey, I did that!”

How to support your baby’s standing journey

The good news? You don’t need fancy equipment or structured lessons. Most of the time, your baby will lead the way—you just get to be their cheerleader, spotter, and safe space to land. It’s also a helpful way to see if your baby’s physical development is on track.

1. Offer sturdy, safe surfaces

Low couches, coffee tables, or a firm ottoman can be great practice spots. So is the crib (just make sure the mattress is lowered once they start pulling up!).

Pro tip: Consider investing in a Cradlewise crib. It not only provides a safe space for your baby to pull while they stand, but also tracks their movements. This helps you stay in tune with their development every step of the way.

2. Use toys as motivation

Place a favorite toy just slightly out of reach on a low surface. This encourages curiosity-driven movement without pressure.

3. Give them floor time

Lots of free play on the floor helps strengthen the core, hips, and legs, all crucial for pulling up.

4. Let them grip your fingers

Offer your hands while they’re sitting or kneeling and let them try pulling themselves up with your support. Let them lead the motion, you’re just there to stabilize.

What comes after pulling to stand?

Next up: cruising that adorable sideways shuffle along furniture. It’s your baby’s practice run for walking, and it usually shows up shortly after they master standing.

Standing also means they’re now tall enough to get into everything. So, it’s a great time to:

• Baby-proof furniture edges
  
• Anchor heavy furniture to walls
  
• Double-check what’s within arm’s reach
  

What to do if your baby falls while learning to stand

Here’s the honest truth: falling is part of the process. In fact, expect it to happen, a lot. As your baby figures out how to shift their weight, balance, and use their legs in new ways, there are bound to be some tumbles along the way.

And while it can be tough to watch, these little falls are how your baby learns. It’s all part of building coordination, confidence, and trust in their body.

“So you may see them fall during this step rather than when pulling up. Staying close by and being mindful of hard surfaces during this stage can be helpful,” she says.

So what should you do when your baby takes a spill?

First, take a breath. Stay calm. Your baby often looks to you for cues if you stay relaxed and reassuring, they’re more likely to shake it off without a fuss. No need for theatrics unless they truly need your help.

If there’s no sign of injury and they’re not hurt or upset, give them a moment to gather themselves. Then offer a little encouragement and let them try again when they’re ready. That resilience? It starts here.

When to check in with your pediatrician

Every baby develops at their own pace—and that’s not just a saying, it’s backed by science. Some little ones are quick to pull up and explore, while others prefer to sit back and observe a little longer before making their move. That said, if your baby isn’t showing much interest in standing or cruising by around 12 months, it’s a good idea to bring it up during your next wellness visit.

You might want to check in if your baby:

• Isn’t attempting to pull to stand by 12 months
  
• Feels unusually floppy or has low muscle tone
  
• Seems stiff, with legs that don’t bend easily
  
• Shows little interest in moving around—like rolling, crawling, or scooting
  
• Avoids putting weight on their legs when supported

Safety tips for the standing and falling stage

Since those adorable baby wobbles are inevitable, it’s smart to set up a safe space for exploring. Here’s how to baby-proof this next chapter:

• Stick to soft flooring
  Carpets, foam mats, or even a folded blanket can give babies a more forgiving surface as they practice. On hard floors, barefoot is best—socks can be slippery!
  
• Stay stair-aware
  Now’s the time to add baby gates and block off stairs. Curious climbers will definitely try to scale them before they’re ready.
  
• Be close (but let them lead)
  Try to stay nearby without hovering. Your presence is their safety net—but letting them explore builds independence.
  
• Clear the crash zone
  Keep sharp-edged furniture, decor, and anything topple-able out of baby’s reach. Those grabby little hands move fast!
  
• Skip high surfaces
  Standing practice belongs on the ground—beds, couches, or other elevated spots are a no-go. A low, stable surface is your best friend.
  
• Anchor heavy furniture
  Secure bookshelves, dressers, and TV stands to the wall—just in case the baby grabs on while pulling up or falling.
  

This stage is full of trial and error, and while it might feel nerve-wracking at times, your support gives your baby the confidence to keep trying. Every tumble is a step closer to standing tall and eventually, taking that first wobbly step forward.

Conclusion

Watching your baby pull to stand can bring a mix of pride, excitement, and maybe a little nostalgia (weren’t they just a newborn?). But rest assured, this is all part of the beautiful, wobbly journey toward independence and you’re doing an amazing job supporting them every step of the way.

And hey, if they pull to stand at 2 a.m. in their crib, just know you’re not alone. We’ve been there. Our smart crib’s gentle bounce is designed to help soothe your baby back to sleep, even during their big developmental leaps. You’re raising a tiny explorer. And that’s no small thing.