What basic motor skill typically develops first in infants?

The ability to lift one's head while lying on the stomach is a fundamental motor skill that typically develops first in infants. This milestone is critical as it signifies the beginning of muscle control and coordination, particularly in the neck and upper body.

When infants are placed on their stomachs, they begin to develop their muscles, particularly the neck, back, and shoulders, allowing them to lift their heads. This action not only enhances their physical strength but also contributes to their sensory experiences, as it enables them to engage more with their surroundings. Gaining this skill is seen as an important precursor to other developmental milestones such as rolling over, sitting up, and ultimately crawling and walking.

Other choices involve more complex motor skills that require prior physical development and coordination. For instance, walking necessitates considerable strength and balance that can only be achieved after earlier skills like head lifting, sitting upright, and crawling have been mastered.