Your Child’s Developmental Milestones
Gross motor skills play a big part in your child’s independence and daily joy, from rolling over and crawling to running and jumping. Let’s explore what gross motor skills are, why they’re important, and how you can support your child’s development every step of the way.
Gross motor skills are movement and physical development markers that involve moving large muscle groups in the body. This movement helps your child develop balance, strength, and coordination. Some examples of gross motor skills include crawling, standing, walking, and sitting.
Every child develops at their own pace, but it is helpful to know the typical movement milestones so you can celebrate progress and recognize when extra support may be needed. Gross motor skills often go hand-in-hand with other areas of growth and development, including fine motor skills, cognitive skills, and communication, so it’s important to take a holistic approach and look at development collectively.
Between 0-2 months
Between 2-4 months
Between 4-6 months
Between 6-9 months
Between 9-12 months
Between 12-15 months
Between 18 months-2 years
Between 15-18 months
Between 2-3 years
Between 3-4 years
Between 4-5 years
You don’t need special equipment or expensive toys to help your child develop gross motor skills. Here are simple, playful ways to support ongoing development at home.
Tummy Time
Tummy time is a key way to build muscles in their necks and shoulders. Those muscles will be key for ongoing physical development. Be sure to place your baby on their stomach on a firm surface like the floor while awake. Keeping bright and colorful toys nearby, or even a mirror, are great ways to help your baby enjoy tummy time.
Age-Appropriate Play
Movement should be fun. Dance, toss a ball, go on nature walks, or spend time at the park. Fun activities or toys that encourage movement will help children develop their muscles and gross motor skills quickly.
Interaction
Babies and toddlers learn best by modeling your movements and interacting with you directly. Take a hands-on approach by getting on the floor, repeating key actions, and offering gentle support and encouragement as they learn new movements and skills.
“Children learn through watching and observing their caregivers. You can involve your child in everyday activities such as washing dishes, doing laundry, and cooking. There is a lot of learning taking place by including your child in these everyday activities.”
Maggie Dietrich, Physical Therapist, Penfield Children’s Center
Early Intervention Services
You know your child best. If you’re concerned about your child’s gross motor skills or if your child is missing milestones, trust your instincts. Early support can make a huge difference.
Talk to Your Pediatrician
Your pediatrician is often your first and best resource. Talk to them about your concerns. They may offer some suggestions and direct you to additional early intervention services. Sometimes, a pediatrician might tell you to wait it out and that your child will catch up. It’s OK to ask for a second opinion if your gut is telling you your little one needs more support.
Get a Referral & Evaluation
Oftentimes, your pediatrician will refer you to an early intervention specialist, including physical therapists or occupational therapists. These specialists will evaluate your child across all areas of development.
Create a Plan
After evaluation, the specialists will work with you to create an ongoing intervention plan to improve your child’s gross motor skills and other key areas of development. This often consists of a collaborative approach with therapy, at home techniques, and working with your child’s daycare teacher or caregiver.
“Gross motor delays are often the first things parents notice about how their child is developing. It’s important they speak to a pediatrician early since a gross motor delay can affect other areas of development.”
Maggie Dietrich, Physical Therapist, Penfield Children’s Center
Parenting is a journey filled with plenty of questions and new experiences. Penfield Building Blocks is here to support you with trusted information, resources, and guidance along the way.
Whether you’re just curious or ready to start services, our resources can help. Explore our online library of free resources for parents and caregivers, developed by the experts at Penfield Children’s Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
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