Gross Motor Milestones: 0-12 Months

Babies develop at their own pace, it’s not a race!

The first year of your child’s life is a busy time, and an important time for babies to learn, explore, and reach developmental milestones. Most babies reach milestones at similar ages, but there can be variation. Babies develop and grow at their own pace, and parents need to remember that it is not a race. It is common to compare milestone achievements with other parents, but please don’t get hung up if your child isn’t reaching milestones at the exact same rate as other children his/her age.

With this in mind, it is also important that parents be aware of the developmental milestones and the approximate age of acquisition. The major gross motor milestones from birth to 12 months are summarized below.

0-2 Months

• Lifts head up while on tummy
• Can bear weight on hands or forearms while on tummy
• Holds head up for short periods
• Rolls onto back from right or left side
• Notices hands

3-5 Months

• Holds head steadily unsupported
• Pushes up on elbows while on tummy
• Rolls from tummy to back
• Sits propped with pillows
• Can hold a toy and reach for dangling toys
• Brings hands to mouth

6-8 Months

• Sits unsupported
• Rolls over in both directions (back to tummy, tummy to back)
• Grabs both feet and holds them
• Maintains balance in sitting when reaching for a toy

9-12 Months

• Pulls to stand
• Lowers to sitting without falling
• Can get into the sitting position
• Stands using support
• Can walk with support or take a few steps forward
• Cruises furniture

If you are concerned that your child is delayed with his/her gross motor skills, speak with your pediatrician or visit a pediatric physiotherapist.