How to Use a Walker Safely

A walker helps kids who have trouble walking or keeping their balance get around. Here's some information to help your child use the walker for walking and getting in and out of a chair. Talk to your health care provider about whether your child should work with a physical therapist to learn how to use the walker in other situations, such as using the toilet and going up and down a curb.

Using the Walker 

To walk, your child should:

1. Stand inside the frame of the walker and grip the handles with both hands. Their arms should be slightly bent.

2. Move the walker forward a little bit while keeping all four legs of the walker on the ground.

3. Support themselves with their hands and arms and take small steps forward. 

4. When they are inside the walker's frame again, they can move it forward and take more steps.

To get up from a chair, your child should:

1. Sit on the front edge of the chair and push against the arms or seat of the chair to stand up. 

2. Keep the walker straight and not put weight on it by pulling on or tilting it.

3. Once standing, move both hands to the walker.

To sit in a chair, your child should:

1. Turn their back to the chair.

2. Walk backward until their legs touch the chair. Reach back with one arm and grasp the armrest or seat.

3. Slowly lower themselves to the chair.

Safety Tips

• Make sure the walker's pads and grips are securely in place and all hardware is tight.

• Make sure the walker is adjusted to the right height for your child.

• Remove small, loose rugs from floors in the house and keep objects and pets away from your child while they use the walker.

• Help your child practice using the walker. Stay close by while they learn to use it so you can help if needed.

• Your child should: 

  • Use good posture with their shoulders back and head up while using the walker.

  • Wear snug, non-slip shoes and avoid flip-flops or other loose shoes that can cause falls.

  • Never use the walker on stairs.

  • If wearing a backpack, keep it on both shoulders to help with balance.

• The walker tips wear out or the walker seems broken.

• Your child has trouble using the walker.