When does the ascent up the Mountain of Motor Development begin?

The ascent up the Mountain of Motor Development begins long before arriving at the base, highlighting that motor development is a process that starts very early in life. This understanding emphasizes the significance of early experiences and interactions that contribute to the foundation of motor skills.

From the earliest days, infants are exposed to various sensory and physical stimuli that shape their motor development trajectory. Movements such as reaching, grasping, and later crawling begin to form pathways in the brain that are crucial for more complex motor skills. These early experiences are crucial as they set the stage for subsequent development, which aligns with the idea that the ascent begins before reaching the established periods typically recognized in the motor development framework.

In contrast, the reflexive period, fundamental patterns period, and context-specific period refer to specific stages along the developmental continuum rather than the initial onset of development. Thus, while these stages are vital in shaping and refining motor skills, they represent phases of development rather than the starting point of the entire journey. This comprehensive view helps in understanding that the roots of motor skills stretch deep into the early formative experiences.