Gross Motor and Fine Motor Skills in Babies and Toddlers: What they are and How to Support Them

Watching a baby grow is like watching a little miracle unfold. Each new skill, whether it’s reaching for a toy, rolling over, or taking that wobbly first step, marks an important stage in their development. Two key areas of early growth are gross motor skills and fine motor skills. Both are essential, and both can be supported through play and everyday experiences.

What Are Gross Motor Skills?

Gross motor skills are the big movements that use large muscles in the arms, legs, and torso. They help children move their bodies around in the world. Examples include:

• Rolling over

• Sitting up

• Crawling

• Walking, running, and climbing

• Jumping, hopping, and dancing

• Balancing

These skills build strength, coordination, and confidence. They are also the foundation for later abilities like riding a bike or playing sports.

What Are Fine Motor Skills?

Fine motor skills are the smaller, more precise movements that use the muscles in the hands, wrists, and fingers. These skills are needed for:

• Reaching and grasping

• Picking up small objects (like finger foods or blocks)

• Stacking, threading, or posting items

• Holding crayons or paintbrushes

• Using cutlery

• Buttoning clothes or turning pages in a book

Fine motor skills lay the groundwork for independence in self-care and creativity in play and learning.

Other Important Skills to Know

Alongside gross and fine motor development, there are a few other areas worth mentioning:

• Balance and coordination: Helps children control their movements smoothly and safely.

• Sensory development: Babies and toddlers learn how their bodies move in space (spatial awareness and body awareness), which supports both gross and fine motor growth.

• Bilateral coordination: Using both sides of the body together, such as holding paper with one hand while cutting with scissors in the other.

• Core strength and stability: A strong core makes it easier for little ones to sit, stand, and move with control.

Ways to Help Babies and Toddlers Develop These Skills

For Babies (0–12 months):

• Tummy time: Strengthens neck, back, and core muscles.

• Reaching for toys: Encourages grasping and hand-eye coordination.

• Supported sitting and standing: Builds balance and stability.

• Clapping games and finger rhymes: Boost fine motor awareness and social interaction.

For Toddlers (1–3 years):

• Climbing and crawling: Soft play spaces, playgrounds, and obstacle courses build strength and confidence.

• Dancing and movement games: Great for coordination and rhythm.

• Stacking and sorting: Blocks, cups, or natural items like shells or rocks support hand control.

• Drawing, painting, and playdough: Strengthens small hand muscles while sparking creativity.

• Simple self-care tasks: Encourage using a spoon, putting on shoes, or washing hands to build independence.

The Role of Play

The best part is that most motor skill development happens naturally through play. Babies and toddlers don’t need structured lessons. They need opportunities to explore safely, try new things, and practice at their own pace.

Your role is to provide safe spaces, open-ended play opportunities, and encouragement. Every roll, climb, scribble, and dance move is a stepping stone in their development journey.

Takeaway: Gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and related abilities like balance and coordination all develop through everyday play. By offering a variety of playful, hands-on activities, you help your little one grow strong, capable, and confident in their body.