Physical Skills

A young child’s physical growth first begins as muscles gain strength followed by gradually developing coordination. The development of muscular control is the first step in this process.

Physical development provides children with the abilities they need to explore and interact with the world around them. A young child’s physical growth first begins as muscles gain strength followed by gradually developing coordination. The development of muscular control is the first step in this process.

As children grow, you can notice dramatic changes in the amount and type of physical activity displayed. Infants spend the first days of life sleeping and eating. However, as they become toddlers, they move from crawling to walking and eventually being more independent and running around. The way children are held and handled, the toys they play with, and their environment all influence their physical skill development.

At this age, 1-year-old’s make dramatic physical progress, typically moving from crawling to running by about 20 months. As they walk, they hold their hands out to the side or hold their bellies out for balance. Their walk is still a bit unstable, making falling down common. They use their new mobility to push and pull toys, dance and climb. Activities that can help in your 1 year old’s Physical skill development:

• Encourage your baby to walk around the house and squat to pick up objects from the ground.
• Help him practice stepping up onto a small curb such as a small step or sidewalk.
• Place your child’s favorite toy at the end of the corridor and create some obstacles along the way that he needs to walk around to get to his toy.
• If you are indoors, let your child practice climbing onto your bed or sofa. Always stay close to your toddler and be ready to catch him if he loses balance.
• Take a trip to the park and encourage your child to walk or run on different surfaces such as floor, grass or sand.