What Are Gross Motor Skills?
Walking, running, jumping or throwing a ball are all gross motor skills, tasks that require people to use large groups of muscles. Disabilities or injuries can hamper the development of gross motor functions.
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Time Frame
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Children acquire gross motor skills as they grow. Upper-body gross motor skills develop first, followed by those of the trunk and extremities. (Reference 2)
Identification
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Although all children develop gross motor skills at different rates, parents can track basic milestones. By seven months, for example, a child should be able to sit up briefly. By age three, s/he should be able to master throwing a ball overhand. (Reference 2)
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Limitations
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Certain disabilities and conditions can affect gross motor skill development. They include Down Syndrome and brain injuries.
Potential
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Children need opportunities to develop gross motor skills. Playing with other children or participating in other physical activities such as sports are helpful. (Reference 2)
Fine Motor Skills
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Fine motor skills involve more precise muscles and movements than gross motor skills do. Those skills include putting a puzzle together, writing your name, or picking up a grain of rice. (Reference 2)
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