Baby's Fine and Gross Motor Skills | A Physical Therapist Approved Guide

Motor development is essential for baby’s physical strength and movement. Motor skills are broken up into two categories: fine motor skills and gross motor skills. Both begin developing after birth and will progress as baby grows. This complete motor skills guide addresses the differences between fine and gross motor skills with examples and activities, and how baby develops these at 0-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12 months old.

What are fine motor skills? These are movements involving small muscle groups, including those in the hand, like wrists and fingers, as well as eyes, lips, and tongue. Fine motor skills are important for sensory and communication development.

What are gross motor skills? These are movements related to large muscle groups, like legs, arms, and trunk. Gross motor skills are important for rolling, crawling, sitting up, walking, running, and jumping. To gain the control necessary to complete motor tasks, it’s important for baby to build strength in their muscles. Learn the differences between motor skills, how they develop, and examples and activities to help develop each.