Pediatricians use a number of guidelines, called milestones, to assess a child’s physical, social and linguistic development. Physical growth is often classified into two categories. Gross motor movements are those in which large groups of muscles are involved. Fine motor movements, in contrast, are those in which small muscles, typically of the hands, are needed. Parents should remember that milestones are guidelines -- each child develops at his own pace, and there is much variability. It is completely normal for children to develop skills several months after the set milestones. Nonetheless, a significant delay in gaining milestones might be a sign of poor development and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
The First Year
Newborns are unable to lift their heads or even turn over. By 4 months of age, the baby can lift his head up and can sit up straight if propped. By 6 months, a child can roll from side to side. Babies can often crawl by 9 months of age. By the first birthday, many babies begin to stand and even start taking their first steps. In addition, babies are able to sit by this age, though they still need some help for this.
The fine motor skills acquired by babies are equally remarkable. At 4 months, babies can hold objects with a primitive grasp and bring them to their mouths. By 6 months, babies can hold their own bottles and pick up dropped objects. By 12 months, children often master the pincer grasp, which allows them to grasp objects using their thumb and forefingers.
The Second Year
Gross motor movements continue to advance in the second year of life. Babies quickly master the skills of walking, and by 18 months of age, they can run on their own as well, though they often lack coordination. 18 month old children can also jump in place and walk up stairs using both feet for each stair. By two years, children also gain mastery over their anal and urinary sphincter, thereby setting the stage for the battles of potty training. Two-year-old babies can also kick balls and run with coordination.
Fine motor activities also develop. By 2 years old, children can imitate scribbling, open door knobs, hold stuffed animals and turn pages in books.
Third and Fourth Years
Over the third and fourth years, physical development continues. Children gain better balance and coordination. They often master the skills needed for toilet training, and they learn how to walk up stairs by using alternating feet. Children can learn how to ride a tricycle during the third year of life. By 4 years old, children can throw a ball and hop on one foot. Children also learn drawing skills: They are often capable of drawing circles and squares by the end of their fourth year. They are also capable of using child-safe scissors.
Ages Five and Beyond
At 5 years of age, children can master skipping, hopping and jumping with good balance. Their mastery over drawing and writing increases as well; at this age they learn how to draw a triangle. Five-year-olds are often capable of spreading food with a knife. Beyond five years, children continue to develop physically. Full muscle coordination is often achieved by mid childhood.
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