So why does it matter? Why should I keep track of my baby's motor milestones?
Here is a recap from one of my previous posts:
Motor milestones are important because they allow us to track our baby's progress and development. Sometimes a delay in motor development may present itself in a delay in motor milestones. Therefore it keeps health care practitioners aware of potential needs...whether it be more testing or a referral to a paediatric physiotherapist. The earlier a child receives care the better. Children learn best when they are very young. They are developing very quickly...making many new "neuropathways" in the brain-basically learning how to move and making memories of this. The earlier a deficit or delay is picked up, the earlier intervention can be started thereby maximizing the benefits of physiotherapy. Why is physiotherapy important to a developing infant?
Physiotherapy will help a child go through movements they may not be attempting- they allow a child to repeat these movement over and over to promote learning-the development of new neuropathways- and lay down new "motor memories".
Here is a list of expected motor milestones at 10-12 months:
1.Can move in and out of different positions easily. This is called transitions. They are important because children will use these often for play and it gives them some independence. I have had clients who could walk but could not transition (sitting to standing, tummy to sitting)
2.Can pull to stand and may walk along furniture (cruising)
3.Primarily crawls or walks
4.Can sit unsupported and does not loose balance when turning to look behind them or throwing a ball
5.Can pick up small objects with thumb and pointer finger
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
sits with weight to one side
stiff legs or pointing toes and difficulty getting to standing
Pulling to standing using only arms
You should also check to make sure baby has met previous milestones. You can ask your health care provider or a paediatric physiotherapist if you are not sure.
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!
"Continuous effort — not strength or intelligence — is the key to unlocking our potential.”
Liane Cardes
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