The PT Department at TherapyWorks in Tulsa frequently hears the question “What should my child be doing at this age”? It’s easy to forget what we did as a young child and when gross motor milestones should be achieved. Below is a list of common gross motor milestones for school aged children and the age range they should be accomplished.
Pre-School Age (3-4 Years)- Throws ball forward 10 feet
- Walks on a line 10 feet
- Hops 2-10 times on 1 foot
- Jumps forward distances of up to 2 feet
- Jumps over obstacles up to 12 inches off the ground
- Throws and catches a small ball
- Runs fast and avoids obstacles
Early School Age (5-8 Years)
- Skips on alternate feet
- Gallops
- Hopscotch
- Balances on 1 foot up to 10 seconds
- Jumps with rhythm and control (jump rope)
- Bounces large ball
- Kicks ball with improved directional control
Later School Age (9-12 Years)
- Mature patterns of movement for throwing, jumping, and running
- Improved balance, coordination, endurance, and attention span
Adolescence (13+ Years)
It is important to note that a rapid growth spurt in size and strength occurs around this age. As children grow there is a significant change in body proportions, center of gravity, and limb lengths. Because of these changes balance skills, coordination, eye-hand coordination, and endurance may plateau as the child adapts to their changing body.