Advice on Encouraging Toddler to Sit Up...

My daughter is 18 months and has Down syndrome, and while she's been sitting up for nearly a year, she still is not walking. It's wonderful that you're getting the physical therapy--it sounds like you're totally on the right path. But be patient. She'll do things in her own time, when she's strong enough and when she's ready. But rest assured, she will do it! Feel free to contact me any time if you have any questions or if you just want to chat!

My advice based on my experience working with my 15-month old who is walking is lots and lots of tummy time. She may complain, but get down on the floor with her and encourage her to push up with her hands. I would also say letting her pullup on a table her size will help build those muscles. We spent a lot of time letting her stand on our lap and then walking her around. Before that for sitting we would prop up her arms like a tripod and give her something to look at.

I have a friend whose daughter has low tone. She is just a little bit older than your daughter, and faces the same challenges. Her Physical Therapist gave her exercises to work on at home with her daughter. Maybe your PT could do the same. It has helped her to be able to sit up.

They also were able to get her a special insert for her shoe. The insert was molded especially for her foot, so it was pricey. It looks like a small boot. Hopefully, it will help her to walk.

Good luck to you and your family!
T.

Hi -) I am a mother of one, nanny of three and here is my advice :-) Try having her lay flat on her back and then take her hands in yours and gently pull her up and forward . When she is sitting, take your hands while you are holding them and sing " row row your boat" while gently rowing with her. It creates a fun way to help her sit up and have some fun and also naturally notice how to hold herself up .I find singing is so much for for you to share with a child , even if you may not be the best singer :-) While she is waiting for those muscles to "catch up", she can still have some fun with you :-) Hope you have fun :-)

J. T

Your main concern is fine. I would ask her therapists for exercises at home. That is all you can really do at this time. Dont sweat it. AS you said she was born with a delayed problem, which means she will be slower at things. If by age 2 then you should really worry.