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

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Observe the child playing with the adult.

When the child pulls to stand to get the toy, move it a foot away, so the child cruises to get it. (Placing cereal around the table also works well.)

The infant cruises around furniture without 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.