Sample Solution

Motor development refers to the acquisition of physical skills, such as crawling and walking, that occurs during early childhood. During this period of development, motor skills are acquired in a predictable sequence, beginning with head control at birth and progressing to running and leaping by age five (Ramírez et al., 2019). The first milestone typically seen is reflexive movements like rooting or sucking that occur shortly after birth (Ramírez et al., 2019). This is followed by rolling over at around three months old and sitting up unsupported at seven months old (Ramírez et al., 2019). By nine months old infants should be able to crawl and pull themselves up into a standing position (Ramírez et al., 2019). Between twelve and eighteen months children begin to walk independently, usually starting with taking their first steps while holding onto furniture for balance before graduating to full walking within several weeks or even days (Ramírez et al., 2019). At two years old most children can demonstrate balance when running, hopping on one foot, catching a ball, turning somersaults, pedaling a tricycle or climbing stairs; all of which are important skills necessary for an active lifestyle throughout life (Ramírez et al., 2019). Thus it is evident that motor development during early childhood plays an integral role in promoting physical activity later in life.