Motor Skill Developmental Milestones

Posted on: Dec-16-2009 posted by: Jeanette Szabo

 The timing of milestones varies from child to child.  Many children will achieve the milestones before or after the 'average' ages. Achieving fine motor milestones a little early may be of no consequence or may indicate that a child is going to be particularly dexterous. However, achieving these milestones a little late has probably no significance whatsoever. A more significant delay may in a few cases suggest that there is an underlying problem.

If you have any concerns, consult your pediatrician. Below is a list of "average" milestone ages. These are merely averages that have been noted, these are not set in stone. 

2 months:
Becomes aware of own fingers.

3 months:
Holds a rattle briefly when placed in hand.

4 months:
Shakes rattle to make noise

5 months: 
Gets hold of an object using the palmar grasp. Grabs toes and pulls them to mouth. 

6 months: 
Reaches with one or both hands to get hold of a toy. Passes objects from one hand to the other. Brings everything to mouth. 

7 months: 
Starts to hold a spoon. Holds a two-handled cup and drinks from it. 

8 months:
Starts to use the early pincer grip. May hold out an object but probably will not let go yet. 

9 months:
Holds a string between finger and thumb and pulls toy. Takes and offered toy. Starts to let go of toys voluntarily. Points at objects, claps, and waves good-bye. 

9-10 months:
 Holds object in each hand and brings them together with a bang. Pincer grip becoming more refined and precise. 

10 months: 
Copies hair brushing.

11 months:
 Lets go of objects deliberately. Enjoys passing objects pack and forth. 

12 months: 
Refined pincer grip is used. Holds two objects in one hand. Puts objects into a container. Better at using a spoon. Picks up sippy cup and rinks from it. Throws objects but with little control or direction.  Watches objects that are dripped or thrown as they fall to the ground.

15 months:
Picks up small objects with either hand. Brings spoon to mouth but drops some of the food when the spoon turns overs.

16-18 months: 
Throws purposefully. Plays with push toys.

18 months: 
Can build a three-block tower. Starts to show hand preference.

2 years:
Using preferred hand for most activities. Builds town of six or severn blocks. 

3 years:
Can handle fork. Can thread large beads. Can build tower of 9-10 blocks.

4 years: 
Can use sewing cards. Can build bridges of several blocks. Will hold pencil with adult grip. 

5 years:
Accomplished at drawing and painting. Can pour drink without spilling. 

There is a lot of information available online and through pediatric associations. Ask you caregiver if you're concerned about your child's development, but remember that these are suggested stages and every child learns and grows at his or her own pace. It is not recommended you force your child to do anything. Introduce new skills to them so that they can learn from you but remember to be patient. 

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