Gross Motor Milestones
Gross motor skills involve the large muscles of the body that help children roll, sit, crawl, walk, run, jump, climb, and move safely through their environment.
This guide highlights general gross motor milestones and signs that your child may benefit from additional support.
Crawling
Crawling requires coordination, core strength, and weight shifting. Support may be helpful if your child is having difficulty reaching this milestone.
Sitting
Sitting builds core strength and balance. Children develop stability as they learn to sit independently and reach for toys.
Walking, Running, & Jumping
As children grow, they develop strength, balance, and coordination needed for walking, running, and jumping.
Gross Motor Development by Age
Gross motor skills develop gradually over time. These milestones are general guidelines, and every child develops at their own pace.
Birth to 3 Months
Babies begin lifting and turning their head, moving arms and legs, and building early head and neck control during tummy time.
4 to 6 Months
Babies may begin rolling, pushing up on their arms during tummy time, sitting with support, and reaching for toys while building core strength.
6 to 9 Months
Children often improve sitting balance, begin moving in and out of sitting, may start crawling or scooting, and begin bearing weight through their legs with support.
9 to 12 Months
Children may pull to stand, cruise along furniture, crawl more efficiently, transition between positions, and begin taking steps with support.
12 to 18 Months
Toddlers often begin walking independently, squatting to pick up toys, climbing onto low furniture, and exploring movement with increasing confidence.
18 to 24 Months
Children may run with improving coordination, walk up and down stairs with help, kick a ball, climb, and begin jumping attempts.
2 to 3 Years
Children often improve with running, jumping, climbing stairs, throwing, kicking, balancing briefly, and participating in active play.
4 to 5 Years
Children may show stronger balance, coordination, hopping, skipping, climbing, ball skills, and more controlled movement during play and school activities.
Concerned About Your Child’s Gross Motor Skills?
If your child is struggling with movement, balance, coordination, or physical milestones like sitting, crawling, or walking, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you through the next steps and determine what support may be beneficial.