Gross Motor Milestones: What to Expect as Your Child Grows
At Abil-OT Kids Therapy, one of the most exciting parts of childhood we get to celebrate is movement — those big, bold milestones like sitting, crawling, walking, and jumping. These are all part of your child’s gross motor development, which involves the use of large muscle groups to move and control the body.
But what should you expect — and when?
Let’s take a look at some general gross motor milestones so you can better understand how your child is growing and when to check in if something feels a little off.
What Are Gross Motor Skills?
Gross motor skills are the big movements we make with our arms, legs, and entire body. These skills help kids:
Sit up
Crawl
Stand and walk
Climb, jump, and run
Maintain balance and coordination
They lay the foundation for active play, safety, and independence — and they grow as your child grows!
General Gross Motor Milestones by Age
Here’s a general timeline of what many children develop as they grow. Keep in mind: every child is unique, and variations are completely normal!
0–6 Months
Lifts head during tummy time
Pushes up on arms while lying on stomach
Rolls from belly to back and back to belly
Begins to sit with support
6–12 Months
Sits independently
Reaches and plays while sitting
Begins crawling or scooting
Pulls up to stand
Cruises (walks while holding furniture)
12–18 Months
Stands alone and takes first steps
Walks independently
Squats to pick up toys
Climbs onto low furniture
18 Months – 2 Years
Walks well without support
Begins to run
Kicks a ball
Walks up stairs with help
Throws a ball (underhand)
2 – 3 Years
Jumps with both feet
Begins to ride a tricycle or ride-on toy
Walks up and down stairs (step-to pattern)
Starts catching large balls
3 – 4 Years
Runs smoothly and can change directions
Climbs playground ladders
Hops on one foot
Throws and catches more accurately
4 – 5 Years
Balances on one foot for several seconds
Skips or gallops
Walks on a balance beam or line
Begins more coordinated sports-like movement
When to Seek Support
It’s okay if your child hits a milestone a little early or a little late. But you may want to reach out to your pediatrician or a pediatric therapist if:
Your child skips milestones (e.g., never crawled)
Movements seem very uncoordinated or clumsy
Your child avoids physical play or tires easily
Walking is delayed beyond 18 months
Your child frequently falls or has difficulty keeping up with peers
Early support can help build skills and prevent frustration or injury later on.
How Abil-OT Kids Therapy Can Help
If you’re concerned about your child’s gross motor development, our team at Abil-OT Kids Therapy is here to help. Through engaging activities, play-based therapy, and personalized goals, we help kids:
Build strength and coordination
Improve balance and body awareness
Gain confidence in how they move
Whether your child is just learning to walk or working toward more advanced movements, we’re here to celebrate every step with you.
Questions about your child’s movement or milestones? Let’s talk! Contact Abil-OT Kids Therapy to schedule an evaluation or learn more about how we can support your child’s growth.