Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Health and Physical Development (HPD)

Subdomain: Motor Development

Goal: Children develop the large muscle control and abilities needed to move through and explore their environment.

Skill Progression: Locomotion: Crawling/walking/running

Age: 8-10 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 8-10 Months.

Observe the child playing with the adult.

After the child plays with the desired toy for a minute, place this or another motivating toy on a chair or couch to encourage the child to climb up to get it.

The infant uses arms and legs together to pull up onto a chair and then get down, but may need assistance.

Because the infant is now on the move, parents need to make sure the environment is safe. The infant will be able to access objects on low furniture. Sharp corners and cupboards need to be made safe. Encourage early childhood educators and parents to play games with the child involving moving to music (involves balance) and chasing the adult as she moves toys under or onto a table, behind objects, and so on. When reading to the child, encourage the child to climb up onto the chair before the adult sits down. Place the book in the chair first, and then join the child once she is in the chair.