The Bottom Step

What you need

• the bottom step of the stairs

How to do it

1. Hold their hand at the foot of the stairs.
2. Step up onto the bottom step together, then back down to the floor.
3. Do it again a few times, just the one step.
4. Add the second step when the first is easy.

Why it matters

One step on its own is a small, safe climb they can repeat, so they get the feel of lifting up before tackling a whole flight.

What they're learning

Stepping up

Lifting onto one step over and over builds the leg strength stairs need.

Stepping down

Coming back off the step is early practice at the harder direction.

Confidence

A small climb that always works makes the next one feel possible.

What to look for

Watch for them turning back to the step for another go on their own.

A tip

Stay right beside them on every step and keep the stairs clear. Shut the stair gate again when you're done.

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