Why Flat Feet and Loose Joints
Happen
Many children with Down syndrome have low muscle tone (hypotonia) and joint hypermobility, which can affect how their feet and legs support them. This means:
These differences are usually part of your child’s natural development and do not indicate a problem on their own.
How These Differences Affect Early Movement
Low muscle tone and loose joints can make activities like standing, cruising along furniture, or walking independently a bit harder. You might notice your baby:
The good news is that with the right support, most children with Down syndrome can develop strong walking and balance skills.
How You Can Support Your Child at Home
There are plenty of ways to encourage strength, stability, and confidence:
When to Consider Extra Support
While flat feet and wobbly walking are common, a physiotherapist or paediatric occupational therapist can help if you notice:
Therapists can recommend:
Celebrating Every Step
Remember, every child develops at their own pace, and small steps toward walking are big wins.
Wobbly walks, flat feet, and loose joints don’t define your child—they’re just part of the journey.
By providing consistent support, encouragement, and safe practice opportunities, you’re helping your baby build the strength, balance, and confidence to explore the world on their own two feet.
💡 Tip: For ideas on exercises and play to support gross motor development, check out our and connect with other parents in our Community Chat for tips and encouragement.
Your presence, encouragement, and love are the most important tools as your baby learns to stand, balance, and walk. Every wobble is progress and every step is a victory.
Many children with Down syndrome have low muscle tone (hypotonia) and joint hypermobility, which can affect how their feet and legs support them. This means:
- Flat feet: The arches in the feet may be less defined, and the foot may appear “flat” when standing.
- Loose joints: Kids may bend or twist their knees, wrists, or elbows more than expected.
- Wobbly walking: Low tone and flexible joints can make balance and coordination more challenging.
These differences are usually part of your child’s natural development and do not indicate a problem on their own.
How These Differences Affect Early Movement
Low muscle tone and loose joints can make activities like standing, cruising along furniture, or walking independently a bit harder. You might notice your baby:
- Sits in a “W” position (knees bent behind them)
- Has trouble keeping feet flat while standing
- Stumbles or tips over more often than peers
The good news is that with the right support, most children with Down syndrome can develop strong walking and balance skills.
How You Can Support Your Child at Home
There are plenty of ways to encourage strength, stability, and confidence:
- Tummy time and floor play: Builds core strength and stability.
- Sit-to-stand games: Encourage standing at low furniture or with gentle support.
- Barefoot play: Helps strengthen foot muscles and improves balance.
- Walking practice: Short sessions with supportive hands or push toys can improve coordination.
- Fun exercises: Crawling over soft pillows, climbing small steps, and playing on mats strengthens muscles in a playful way.
When to Consider Extra Support
While flat feet and wobbly walking are common, a physiotherapist or paediatric occupational therapist can help if you notice:
- Persistent difficulties standing or walking after age 2–3
- Pain or frequent tripping/falling
- Limited ability to play or move due to instability
Therapists can recommend:
- Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles
- Supportive footwear or orthotics if needed
- Balance and coordination games tailored to your child’s needs
Celebrating Every Step
Remember, every child develops at their own pace, and small steps toward walking are big wins.
Wobbly walks, flat feet, and loose joints don’t define your child—they’re just part of the journey.
By providing consistent support, encouragement, and safe practice opportunities, you’re helping your baby build the strength, balance, and confidence to explore the world on their own two feet.
💡 Tip: For ideas on exercises and play to support gross motor development, check out our and connect with other parents in our Community Chat for tips and encouragement.
Your presence, encouragement, and love are the most important tools as your baby learns to stand, balance, and walk. Every wobble is progress and every step is a victory.
For Parents and Parents-to-Be of Children with Down Syndrome
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
Created with
