Today, we’ll discuss some of the important gross motor development milestones in infancy, focusing particularly on balance and the early independent movements, such as dragging and crawling. These skills develop progressively, with each child reaching them at their own pace.
Developing these skills effectively is crucial, as delays or inefficient acquisition may negatively impact later stages.
Our goal is not to accelerate motor development but to enhance its quality, helping children acquire motor skills in a solid way that will benefit them in the future.
Early Independent Movements
- Dragging
This is the precursor to crawling and represents a baby’s first attempt at independent movement. A good dragging pattern involves cross-body movements of hands and feet, carried out smoothly and automatically. The baby moves face-down, with their body in close contact with the floor. This milestone is essential as it sets the foundation for future motor achievements, such as crawling. - Crawling
Crawling is a key milestone, not only because it enables the baby to explore their surroundings independently, but also because it fosters the development of gross and fine motor skills, proprioception, and cognitive abilities. During crawling, the baby needs to control their posture and strengthen hands, arms, feet, head, and back, preparing them for future milestones such as walking, running, and jumping.
Crawling helps develop visual skills, balance, and coordination, all of which are crucial for reading and writing. Additionally, effective crawling encourages connections between both hemispheres of the brain, promoting cognitive functions and complex movements.
Consequences of Ineffective Crawling
Inefficient crawling can lead to issues with:
- Illegible handwriting.
- Lack of concentration and learning difficulties.
- Poor hand-eye coordination, which is essential for reading, writing, and fine motor skills.
- Difficulty in visually tracking lines.
Exercises to Stimulate Crawling in Children with Down Syndrome
The following are recommended exercises. For best results, perform these exercises in a safe, clean, and calm space, with both parents present, at least three times a day, when the child is awake and relaxed.
- Rolling the Block
Objective: Encourage the baby to roll from a face-up position to a face-down position on their own.
Instructions: One caregiver places a hand under the baby’s head and, with the other hand, holds a leg in a flexed position. Use a toy to attract the baby’s attention, encouraging them to move until they are face-down. - Weight-Bearing
Objective: Help the baby get used to bearing their own weight and develop balance.
Instructions: Place the baby on the floor and support them by holding their hands, allowing them to bear some of their own weight. - Movement
Objective: Directly stimulate crawling.
Instructions: Place the baby on their stomach and attract their attention with a toy within reach. Ensure the object is close enough for the baby to attempt reaching it without becoming discouraged. - Crawling Support Exercise
Objective: Encourage the baby to support their weight on their arms and legs.
Instructions: Position the baby face-down on a roll or on your leg, helping them support their weight on their limbs. Alternate lifting one of their legs. These exercises are suitable once the baby is able to sit up independently.
Dragging is generally expected to develop by around 13 months, with crawling following at approximately 17 to 18 months.
