The Three Stages of Learning New Motor Skills

There are three broad stages of motor skills development. These stages encompass ages 0 to 2, 2 to 6 and 6 to 12. Each of these stages offers specific growth in terms of motor skills. According to Jean Piaget, Ph.D, "Children go through specific stages as their intellect and ability to see relationships matures. These stages are completed in a fixed order with all children."

  1. Infanthood

    • This stage of motor skill development, between the ages of 0 and 2, is where growth occurs at the fastest rate. The motor skills development begins to slow down at the age of 2. It is important to engage your infant in many activities during this stage to help encourage development . Activities include tummy time, which allows your child to experiment with movement; talking to your baby; and touching your baby as much as possible. Letting your baby grasp your fingers to try to pull himself up is an effective motor exercise. The exercise can be performed any time you are interacting with your child, which should be frequently at this stage.

    Early childhood

    • This period, also known as the preschool years (ages 2 to 6), is when motor movement skills develop at a quick pace. Between the ages of 2 and 4 your child should begin walking and develop the ability to do so naturally. By 5, your child should have enough control to start and stop running.

    Later Childhood

    • Changes in motor skills slow down during this stage, which takes place between the ages of 6 and 12. Changes are still taking place during this time, but they are less noticeable. Your child may have already developed bad habits that will be harder to break. The onset of puberty marks the end of this stage. Your child's motor skills are typically set by this point.

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