How to Identify Sequential Development of Gross Motor Skills
When your baby first sits up independently, crawls into your arms and takes those precious first steps, you are witnessing the development of her gross motor skills. These skills engage the large muscles of the body. According to Linda Acredolo, Ph.D., and Susan Goddwyn, Ph.D., authors of "Baby Minds: Brain-Building Games Your Baby Will Love," the window of development for gross motor skills is rather large because there is so much for children to learn. Your child will benefit from you being able to identify the sequential development of his gross motor skills.
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Instructions
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Find a developmental checklist for gross motor milestones or combine several checklists to create your own. Checklists are available from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Record the date your child masters each of the gross motor milestones. To consider it mastered, make sure that your child is consistently demonstrating the milestone. If your child masters a milestone, such as walking, and then stops, consult your doctor.
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Provide plenty of opportunities for your child to practice her gross motor skills. Young babies need plenty of tummy time and floor time to practice using their large muscles. Encourage older children to be active and play outside. Play along with your children as they master their gross motor skills.
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Have your child attend all well-child visits. Discuss your child's gross motor development at each visit. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to share them with your child's doctor. Early detection is key in helping to prevent and treat developmental problems. The doctor also may want to personally observe your child's ability to execute given gross motor tasks.
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Consider completing the Ages and Stages Questionnaire through the University of Oregon. This online developmental screening is for children from birth to 5 years old. The survey provides activities to be completed by the child and parent. Results are e-mailed to you, and activities are suggested to help your child develop.
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Make sure your child receives assistance if he is displaying developmental delays with gross motor skills. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or help identify a program that will assist your child in overcoming the delays. Intervention should be started as soon as possible.
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Tips & Warnings
Discuss your child's gross motor development with any other caregivers. Each caregiver should be aware of the milestones mastered and the ones your child is currently working toward.
Boys tend to display mastery of gross motor skill milestones before girls.
You know your child best. If you suspect any problems, promptly consult your child's doctor. Follow your parental instincts and get a second opinion if needed.
