Sensitive Period For Movement (Birth To 4 Years) |

The sensitive period for movement can be divided into different classifications. For acquisition of gross and fine motor (walking and the use of the hands) is from 0-2.5 years of age. The environment we prepare for this is the opportunities for the child to crawl, pull up, encourage to walk with or without assistance and not just left to sit by themselves. A child is also given toys/materials that allow their hands to hook, bat, touch, turn, insert and grasp small items within their abilities. We have to give them toys or materials that improve the movement of the hand, and improve eye/hand coordination. These opportunities given to them need to be repeated in order for these skills to be refined.

Refinement/coordination of movement is from 2.5 to 4.5 years of age. This is when the child may start using both hands in coordination of fine movements, being able to hold small items with pincer grip and release voluntary. Gross motor can be coordination of walking, running, balancing while carrying a jug of water and jumping. The child acquires this coordination through repetition of purposeful motor activity. Regular visits to the park or outdoor environment is likely to help this sensitive period.