What is the typical age range for children to walk up and down stairs without support (step-to)?

The typical age range for children to walk up and down stairs without support (step-to) is between 2 to 2.5 years. At this developmental stage, children have usually developed the necessary muscle strength, coordination, and balance needed to safely navigate stairs independently. Motor skills progress through various stages, and by this age, toddlers are typically able to alternate their feet and exhibit greater control as they tackle more complex movements.

Earlier milestones, such as walking independently around 12 months, do not necessarily correlate with stair navigation abilities. Engaging in climbing and exploring their environment further contributes to their stair skills, usually consolidating their capacity to manage steps by the age of 2 to 2.5 years. This is when more refined gross motor skills and spatial awareness come into play, allowing them to ascend and descend stairs safely while maintaining balance.