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: 10-12 Months

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Observe the child during daily routines.

No elicitation needed.

The infant may take several independent steps without thinking or with the encouragement of the adult.

Parents are always anxious to see infants take their first steps. Assure them that not all children walk by one year of age. They can help build the child’s skills and confidence by giving the child reasons to stand unsupported by a low table with a few toys. When the child picks up a toy with both hands, the adult can then encourage the child to share the object. “Let me see it.” This encourages the child to move toward the adult. The adult should emphasize wanting the toy rather than wanting the child to walk. This takes the child’s mind off the act of walking.