One Foot Down
What you need
- the bottom few steps of the stairs
How to do it
- Sit them on the third step up, then stand them up facing down with your hand in theirs.
- Stand one step below them.
- Let them step one foot down to meet you, then the other.
- Say the same words each time, like "one foot down".
Why it matters
Going down is harder than going up, so a few steps with your hand and the same words each time helps them feel how far each step drops.
What they're learning
- Stepping down
- Lowering their weight onto the step below is its own balance challenge.
- Holding on
- Your hand in front keeps them steady.
- Following your words
- The same words every time help them know what's next.
What to look for
Watch for them pausing to look at the next step before stepping.
A tip
Stay right beside them on every step and keep the stairs clear. Shut the stair gate again when you're done.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: turn them round to go down backwards on their tummy
Harder: try one more step each time
