Gross Motor Milestones by Age (0–2 Years): When Should Parents Be Concerned?
Watching your child learn to roll, sit, crawl, stand, and eventually walk is an exciting part of early development. These physical skills are known as gross motor milestones, and they help children build strength, coordination, balance, and independence. While every child develops at their own pace, milestones provide helpful guidelines for what skills typically emerge during the first two years of life.
Gross Motor Milestones: Birth to 6 Months
Typical milestones include:
- Lifting the head during tummy time
- Pushing up onto forearms
- Bringing hands to the mouth
- Rolling from tummy to back and eventually both directions
- These early movements support neck, shoulder, and core strength.
Gross Motor Milestones: 7–12 Months
Typical milestones include:
- Sitting without support
- Crawling or scooting
- Pulling to stand
- Cruising along furniture
- Beginning to take first steps
- Some children may skip crawling but still progress through normal motor development.
Gross Motor Milestones: 13–18 Months
This stage often brings rapid progress.
Children may begin:
- Walking independently
- Climbing onto furniture
- Squatting to pick up toys and returning to standing
- Beginning to run
- Balance and coordination continue to improve during this period.
Gross Motor Milestones: 19–24 Months
Toddlers become more confident movers and explorers.
Typical milestones include:
- Running with improving coordination
- Kicking and throwing a ball
- Walking up stairs with support
- Jumping with both feet
These skills support play, exploration, and independence.
When Should Parents Be Concerned?
Variation in development is expected, but it may be helpful to speak with a pediatrician or specialist if your child:
- Is not rolling by about 6 months
- Is not sitting independently by 9 months
- Is not pulling to stand by 12 months
- Is not walking by 18 months
- Falls frequently or struggles with balance
- Appears unusually stiff or floppy
- Strongly favors one side of the body
Trust your instincts. Parents are often the first to notice when something feels different.
Why Early Support Matters
When concerns are identified early, children can receive support during an important stage of development. Physical therapy can help your child strengthen their movement skills and build independence through play-based activities. Remember: milestones are guides, not tests. Every child’s path is unique, but understanding developmental expectations can help families feel more informed and supported. The pediatric physical therapy team at Child and Family Development offers free phone consultations for parents and caregivers. If you are in the greater Charlotte, NC area and have questions about your child’s development, we’re here to help. Schedule your consultation with our team today. For more information: https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/milestones/
