Gross and fine motor development

Infants and Toddlers (0-36 months)

During the first three years of life, children learn about the environment through movement of their bodies. Adults should encourage and nurture this motor development, as it sets the groundwork for later learning.

Young infants use their bodies for exploration, while older ones, once they have control over their large muscles, use it to actually move through the environment. Crawling, creeping and first steps take place during this time. As toddlers, they start walking to explore objects and spaces, and eventually develop motor skills to complete tasks independent from adults.

There are three components of motor development in infants and toddlers:

• Gross motor development: The use, refinement and coordination of large muscles in the body.
• Fine motor development: The same as above, but for small muscles. Eye-hand coordination is a good example.
• Self-help skills: The ability to accomplish health and self-care routines independently and interdependently with adults.

Bottom line: Parents, caregivers and teachers should provide a safe environment for infants and toddlers to explore, and show excitement about their emerging abilities. Adults should also respect individual differences.

Preschoolers (3-5 years old)

Preschoolers are on the move, mostly due to their increased motor skill coordination. Moving their bodies is exciting for them, and creates self-confidence. Increased control of their hands lets them manipulate object in new and different ways. To develop their physical skills, children should use balls, scarves, hoops, ropes and beanbags. Unstructured play is still important as it provides opportunities to practice developing movement skills.