Executive Summary
- Study of 70,000 babies identifies 11 genetic markers influencing walking age.
- Genetics account for about 25% of the differences in when children begin to walk.
- Later walking (within normal range) is linked to genes involved in brain development, higher education, and lower ADHD risk.
Event Overview
A new study published in Nature Human Behaviour has revealed a genetic component to the age at which babies take their first steps. Researchers from the universities of Surrey and Essex analyzed the genetic information of over 70,000 babies and identified 11 genetic markers that appear to influence this developmental milestone. The findings suggest that genetics accounts for about a quarter of the variation in walking age among children.
Media Coverage Comparison
| Source | Key Angle / Focus | Unique Details Mentioned | Tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Independent | Genetic influence on the age babies start walking | Identifies 11 genetic markers, links later walking to less ADHD, quotes from researchers Ronald and Gui. | Informative and reassuring |
Key Details & Data Points
- What: Identification of 11 genetic markers that influence when babies take their first steps.
- Who: Researchers from the University of Surrey and Essex, led by Professor Angelica Ronald and Dr. Anna Gui, conducted the study on 70,000 babies.
- When: The study was recently published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.
- Where: The research was conducted by the University of Surrey and Essex.
Key Statistics:
- Key statistic 1: 25% (Proportion of differences in walking age accounted for by genetics)
- Key statistic 2: 70,000+ (Number of babies whose genetic information was analyzed)
- Key statistic 3: 11 (Number of genetic markers identified)
Analysis & Context
The study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing a key developmental milestone. By identifying specific genetic markers, the research opens avenues for a better understanding of motor development and potential interventions for children with motor disorders or learning disabilities. The link between later walking (within the typical range) and positive traits like higher educational attainment and reduced ADHD risk offers reassurance to parents concerned about their child's development.
Notable Quotes
most babies take their first step sometime between ages eight months and 24 months, so it is a wide window in which this exciting milestone happens.
We see that genetics play a considerable role in influencing the timing of this milestone.
Conclusion
The study's findings highlight the significant role of genetics in determining when babies begin to walk. While genetics account for a notable portion of the variation, parents should remain aware that a wide range of walking ages is normal. The research also suggests potential links between walking age and other developmental traits, offering a more nuanced understanding of child development.
Disclaimer: This article was generated by an AI system that synthesizes information from multiple news sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and objectivity, reporting nuances, potential biases, or errors from original sources may be reflected. The information presented here is for informational purposes and should be verified with primary sources, especially for critical decisions.
