Continuing the conversation from Motor Milestones from Birth to 6 Months, we now turn our focus to Motor Milestones for Infants 7 to 12 Months!
Months #7-9
This is an exciting time as children are becoming more independently mobile, gaining mastery of a range of developmental positions (sitting, quadruped, supported standing), beginning to crawl and cruise truly changes “the game” for parents and children!
Begin to note ability to:
- Roll over in both directions
- Move objects from one hand to the other
- Maintain sitting balance when reaching and manipulating objects
- Transition from sit to all fours (quadruped), rocking in quadruped position
- Crawl: many different unique styles exist! Learn more about teaching children to crawl here!
- Pull to stand with support from upper body
- Begin to cruise around furniture aka “side shuffle”
- Begin crawling up stairs.
Activities (7-9 months)
Months #10-12
Note ability of child to be able to:
- Perform squat to stand, gaining more control in squat position
- Maintain tall kneel while manipulating toys
- Transition in and out of sit, quadruped and kneel with greater fluidity and ease
- Begin to stand independently
- Cruise with ease, in both directions
- Begin to take steps with minimal assistance
- Crawl up and down stairs
- Begin to walk independently
Activities (10-12 months)
Looking Ahead
Keep in mind each child has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Try to resist comparing your child to others. Focus on your child’s special talents and celebrate each and every accomplishment with them.
- Continue to encourage creative and active play.
- Get involved and introduce child to different activities with adults and peers alike! Climbing, swimming, sports games…so many great options and opportunities to find enjoyable activities that help build confidence and a sense of self!
- Allow child sensory experiences to help facilitate gross motor development.
For great Developmental Toy Recommendations for Infants read here!
Read more about Ideas to Teach Children to Crawl!
Read more about Ideas to Teach Children to Stand!
For Future Milestones, read our Teaching Children to Walk!
Learn more about Dinosaur Physical Therapy!
To continue the conversation follow us on Facebook and Twitter