The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TODDLES
T
O
D
D
L
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Takes baby steps" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case takes baby steps = toddles.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TODDLES mean?
TODDLES verb- To walk unsteadily, as a small child does.
- To walk in a carefree manner.