Toe-Walking in Children: When It’s Normal and When to Get It Checked

Have you noticed your child walking on their toes instead of placing their heels on the ground? Maybe it looks playful. Maybe it comes and goes. Or maybe it’s starting to worry you.

Toe walking in children is actually quite common — especially in toddlers who are still learning how to move their bodies. But in some cases, persistent toe walking can signal that your child’s muscles, movement patterns, or nervous system need a closer look.

At On The Ball Pediatric, we often help families in Kanata and Orleans understand whether toe walking is part of normal development or something worth assessing sooner rather than later.

Let’s break down toe walking in children in a clear, parent-friendly way.

What Is Toe Walking in Children?

Toe walking means your child walks on the balls of their feet without their heels touching the ground. You might notice it:

• When they’re barefoot
  
  
• When they’re excited or focused
  
  
• During play or running
  
  

Occasional toe walking can be part of normal motor exploration. The key question is how often it happens and why.

When Toe Walking Is Considered Normal

Habitual Toe Walking (Common in Toddlers)

Many young children go through a phase of toe walking as they:

• Learn balance and coordination
  
  
• Explore different movement patterns
  
  
• Develop strength in their legs
  
  

If your child:

• Is under 2–3 years old
  
  
• Can walk with heels down when reminded
  
  
• Has no delays in other motor milestones
  
  

…toe walking is often habitual and may resolve on its own.

That said, if toe walking continues beyond the toddler years, it’s worth checking in.

When Toe Walking Should Be Assessed

Persistent or Neurological Toe Walking

Toe walking may need assessment if your child:

• Walks on their toes most of the time
  
  
• Cannot place their heels down easily
  
  
• Complains of calf tightness or fatigue
  
  
• Trips, falls, or avoids certain activities
  
  
• Has developmental or sensory concerns
  
  

In some cases, toe walking can be associated with:

• Muscle tightness or shortened calves
  
  
• Reduced ankle mobility
  
  
• Sensory processing differences
  
  
• Neurological conditions (such as cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders)
  
  

This is why early assessment matters. The sooner movement patterns are understood, the easier they are to guide in a positive direction.

Why Early Assessment Makes a Difference

Persistent toe walking can lead to:

• Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendons
  
  
• Reduced ankle range of motion
  
  
• Changes in posture and balance
  
  
• Foot pain as kids grow and become more active
  
  

A pediatric assessment doesn’t mean something is “wrong.” It simply gives you clarity and a plan — and often reassurance.

How Pediatric Physiotherapy Can Help Improve Gait

Pediatric Physiotherapy Gait Assessment

At On The Ball Pediatric, pediatric physiotherapy focuses on how your child moves in real life — not just on an exam table.

A gait assessment may look at:

• Walking and running patterns
  
  
• Ankle and foot mobility
  
  
• Muscle strength and flexibility
  
  
• Balance, coordination, and posture
  
  

This helps determine whether toe walking is habitual, physical, sensory-based, or neurological.

Pediatric Physiotherapy Treatment for Toe Walking

Treatment is always child-centred and play-based. Depending on your child’s needs, toe walking treatment in Kanata and Orleans may include:

• Stretching and mobility exercises to improve calf and ankle flexibility
  
  
• Strengthening activities for the feet, ankles, and legs
  
  
• Gait training to encourage heel-to-toe walking
  
  
• Balance and coordination games
  
  
• Parent education with simple activities you can use at home
  
  

When appropriate, we may also collaborate with occupational therapy (OT) to address sensory or motor planning factors.

When to Reach Out for Support

Consider booking an assessment if your child:

• Is over age 3 and still toe walking regularly
  
  
• Cannot voluntarily walk with heels down
  
  
• Has increasing muscle tightness
  
  
• Seems uncomfortable or less confident with movement
  
  

Early support helps protect growing muscles and joints — and supports confident, efficient movement as your child grows.

Supporting Healthy Movement at On The Ball Pediatric

At On The Ball Pediatric, we support children and families across Kanata and Orleans, Ontario with compassionate, evidence-based pediatric physiotherapy care. Our goal is to help your child move comfortably, confidently, and joyfully — at their own pace.

If you’re unsure whether your child’s toe walking is something to watch or something to assess, we’re here to help.

Book a pediatric physiotherapy gait assessment today and take the guesswork out of your child’s movement.