What is motor development?

Motor development refers to the process through which children acquire the ability to use their bodies to perform various physical skills. This encompasses the progression of movement skills, ranging from simple actions like grasping and crawling to more complex ones like running, jumping, and playing sports. It is a crucial aspect of a child's growth as it involves the integration of physical abilities with cognitive and perceptual skills.

Understanding motor development helps in recognizing the typical milestones children reach as they grow, which can vary based on several factors including genetics and environment. This process is foundational for children's overall development, influencing their ability to interact with their surroundings, engage in play, and participate in social activities. Therefore, framing motor development in the context of skills acquisition is essential for grasping its significance in childhood growth.