What response is most appropriate for a nurse to give to parents about a 15-month-old toddler who is not yet walking?

The most appropriate response is that children often set their own pace. At 15 months, there is a wide range of normal when it comes to walking. While many toddlers do begin walking between 9 to 15 months, some may take longer to achieve this milestone and still fall within the spectrum of typical development. Each child develops skills at their own rate, influenced by various factors including individual temperament and the environment.

This response reassures parents that a delay in walking does not necessarily indicate a problem, as toddlers develop gross motor skills at different times. By normalizing the situation, the nurse helps alleviate concern and fosters a supportive atmosphere for parents as they navigate their child's developmental stages.

The other options suggest immediate action or imply definitive issues without considering the broader context of child development, which could increase the parents’ anxiety unnecessarily.