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Patient Questions  /  Toddler walking on tiptoes

Kids & Babies

Why Does My Toddler Walk on Tiptoes?

Many toddlers walk on their toes now and then while they are learning to walk, and most settle into a heel-to-toe walk by about age 2. If your child still walks on their toes most of the time after that, can't stand with their heels flat, or toe walks on only one side, it's worth having it checked.

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Why toddlers walk on their toes

Walking is a brand new skill. Some toddlers go up on their toes for balance, out of habit, or because they like the feel of it. Many children who toe walk have no other problems at all and slowly grow out of it.

Toe walking that goes on for years can make the calf muscles and Achilles tendon tight. Then it gets harder for the heel to reach the ground, and the habit can feed itself.

When it is worth a closer look

  • Your child toe walks most of the time after about age 2.
  • They can't stand with both heels flat on the floor, even when you ask.
  • Only one foot goes up on its toes.
  • They trip or fall a lot more than other kids their age.

Your pediatrician can check whether there is a reason behind the toe walking. Sometimes it is linked to a muscle or nerve condition, or to delays in other areas of development, so a check-up is the right first step.

What you can do at home

Let your child play barefoot on safe surfaces, and encourage activities that bring the heels down, like squatting to play, walking up gentle slopes and marching games. Try not to scold. Toe walking is not bad behavior.

When to see a doctor

See your child's pediatrician promptly if:

  • Your child used to walk flat-footed and has started walking on their toes
  • They are losing skills they already had, or seem weaker
  • Toe walking on one side only
  • They are also behind in speech, play or social skills
  • Their heels can't touch the ground even when standing still

How physical therapy at ARI can help

A physical therapist can check calf flexibility, strength, balance and how your child walks and runs. Treatment usually mixes playful stretching, strengthening and balance activities with walking practice. Parents are part of each visit and get a simple home program, and we coordinate with your child's pediatrician.

At ARI Physical Therapy in Bakersfield, every visit is one-on-one and in person with a licensed physical therapist, and our clinic director, Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, is a board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist. We accept most private insurance plans and Medicare, and we have staff who speak Spanish and Hindi. We can usually see new pediatric patients within 1–2 weeks.

Read our full guide: Toe walking in kids →

No referral needed to start. In California, you can see a physical therapist directly for up to 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first. Some insurance plans still require a referral for coverage; call us at (661) 282-8584 and we'll help you check.

Related questions

Ready to feel better?

Talk to a licensed physical therapist at ARI, one-on-one. Request an evaluation and we'll get back to you, usually within one business day.

Request an EvaluationCall (661) 282-8584

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms, a licensed clinician should evaluate you.

Clinically reviewed by Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist · Reviewed October 2026