Motor Skills Development in Children

Newborn to Three Months

• Newborns marvel at their hands. At first, infants' hands remain in fists. HealthyChild.org explains that by the age of three months, babies enjoy observing them as they open and close. Eventually, they achieve bringing them to their mouths. Infants can lift and move their heads from side to side only when lying on their stomachs. Infants do not hold their heads steady when on their backs until month four. When on their backs, infants stretch their bodies and kick their legs. They grab lightweight toys and shake them.

Four to Seven Months

• During this phase, when lying face down, babies push themselves up to lift their chests. This strength helps them roll over from their bellies to their backs and vice versa. Kidshealth.org states that, "With improved neck and trunk strength, babies learn to sit when placed in that position with support." The ability to reach with one hand brings many new items to their mouths including their toes.

Eight to 12 Months

• Motor skills during this stage allow children to move from a lying down position to a seated position all by themselves, according to the Mayo Clinic. They begin to scoot and sometimes even crawl across the room. They use their strength to pull themselves up to a standing position and walk alongside the furniture for support, and some even take their first solo steps. Babies also start to pick up food and toys using their thumb and index finger. This also helps them begin to use a spoon.

Toddlers

• During the Toddler Phase, children walk without support. They enjoy pulling toys behind them as the carefully step around the house. Renowned pediatrician Dr. Sears explains that "This will progress into running (and falling), stepping up stairs, jumping." He continues explaining that toddlers "develop throwing and catching skills, "hold and drink from a cup" and enjoy scribbling using their improved dexterity.

Preschool

• Healthychild.org informs parents that by age five, a "preschooler now has the coordination and balance of an adult." Preschoolers walk with confidence, go up and down stairs, tip toe and zip around on their tricycle. Drawing becomes more careful instead of wild scribbles. Children want to dress themselves but may still need practice with buttons, snaps, zippers and shoelaces. As children continue to grow, they refine their motor skills developed during these early years.