"Adults move because their will directs them, but not so with the small child. The small child is urged by nature."
Maria Montessori, The 1946 London Lectures, p. 128
Children's physical development in the early years of life is remarkable. As they transition from entirely dependent infants to curious toddlers exploring their world, they undergo significant changes in their motor skills. We know that in the first plane of development (0-6 years of age), children are in a sensitive period for movement, both for fine and gross motor skills. With this in mind, what is the difference between these two types of motor development?
Pull-Up Bar with Mirror in the Infant room at Montessori Country Day School in Houston, Texas
Gross motor skills involve the body's large muscles, such as those in the arms and legs. These skills enable children to perform big movements like crawling, walking, jumping, and throwing. In the first three years of life, motor development is one of the most visible and impactful areas of growth. During this period, a child's entire motivation revolves around mastering the ability to move from a flat position to standing upright. This milestone is significant because it represents the child’s growing autonomy and ability to interact with their environment in new ways.
While gross motor skills deal with large movements, fine motor skills focus on the smaller muscles, particularly in the hands and fingers. These skills are essential for tasks that require precision, such as picking up small objects, feeding themselves, and eventually writing. Fine motor skills develop early as infants begin to reach for objects, grasp toys, and manipulate items within their environment.
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