Gross Motor Skills in Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
gross motor milestones as quickly as their peers. While this could be normal, Barchacky says that some missed milestones may suggest a gross motor skill delay. These delays might also be observed at your child's annual pediatrician check-up, or through daycare or another child care professional.
Gross motor delays are sometimes caused by a medical condition, such as low muscle tone, a central nervous system disorder, or a muscle disorder. Treatment usually involves some form of physical therapy.
"For a significant delay, a pediatric physical therapist would provide therapy and teach the parents how to facilitate gross motor development," says Dr. Cross. "Sometimes this can be done through a hospital outpatient clinic, or the child may receive this through the early intervention program for children." Early intervention programs are available for children under age 3.
If there are other medical concerns, your child might be referred to a developmental pediatrician, a neurologist, or a neuromuscular specialist.
Tracking Gross Motor Milestones
Every child develops at a different pace, but if you're looking to track gross motor milestones, Barchacky and Dr. Cross both recommended the CDC's Milestone Tracker App. This free app includes illustrated checklists to monitor your child's development from 2 months to 5 years of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics also has a tool for tracking potential developmental delays in kids.
Finally, Dr. Cross recommends that parents observe their child's movements in everyday activities. For example, "babies should move both sides of their bodies equally. Signs of asymmetry—like not moving one side as much as the other—could signify a problem," she says.
Remember to bring up any concerns with your child's pediatrician. They can help diagnose potential gross motor delays and figure out the best course of treatment.
