Late Walkers, Bright Minds? New Study Reveals Surprising Link Between Walking Age and Intelligence 🧠👶
For generations, parents have eagerly waited for their baby’s first steps — often worrying if it takes “too long”. But new research suggests that late walking in children may actually be linked to higher academic potential and a lower risk of ADHD.
Published in Nature Human Behavior, this groundbreaking study shifts how we think about one of childhood’s most important milestones.
🧬 Genes That Shape Both Steps and Smarts
The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Surrey, University of Essex, and University of London, analyzed genetic data from more than 70,000 children.
Key findings:
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Around 25% of differences in walking age are explained by genetics.
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11 genetic markers were identified that influence when children begin to walk.
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Intriguingly, these same genetic markers are also linked to higher educational achievement and lower risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Professor Angelica Ronald, a leading psychologist and geneticist, explained:
“These common genetic variants don’t just influence walking age. They’re also associated with educational attainment and reduced risk of attention problems like ADHD. This is the first genetic study of early developmental behavior on such a scale.”
👣 Why Some Children Walk Later Than Others
Most children take their first independent steps between 8 and 24 months, with the majority walking around the 18-month mark. But this milestone varies widely, and for good reason.
Dr. Anna Gui, a developmental researcher from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, noted:
“We still don’t fully understand why some children walk later than others. This study shows genes play a major role, which can reassure parents whose children take longer to walk compared to peers.”
Beyond genetics, other factors also play a role, such as overall health, muscle strength, and opportunities to practice walking.
🚩 When Should Parents Worry?
Doctors advise that if a child has not shown signs of standing or attempting to walk by 18 months, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice. However, if the child is meeting other developmental milestones — such as talking, playing, and using their hands — then walking a little later is usually not a cause for alarm.
🧠 The Bigger Picture: Walking and Brain Development
Interestingly, the genes influencing walking age were also linked to the development of the cortex — the part of the brain responsible for memory, reasoning, and language.
This suggests that children who walk later may have brains wired slightly differently, with possible advantages in thinking and learning skills later in life.
Professor Ronald emphasized:
“A child’s first steps are one of life’s most iconic moments. Identifying the genes linked to this behavior opens the door to understanding how physical and cognitive development are connected.”
So next time you see a toddler taking their time, remember: those tiny feet may be carrying big potential.
Caht collect
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