Which action is an example of a gross motor skill commonly seen in 3- to 4-year-olds?

Which action is an example of a gross motor skill commonly seen in 3- to 4-year-olds?

• A. Balancing on one foot briefly
• B. Riding toys with pedals
• C. Climbing on and off furniture
• D. Walking up stairs without support

Answer: (A)

Gross motor skills involve large movements using big muscles, like balancing and coordinating the legs. For 3- to 4-year-olds, showing the ability to balance on one foot briefly demonstrates static balance and control, a skill that commonly emerges around this age. Riding a toy with pedals, climbing on and off furniture, and walking up stairs without support are all gross motor activities too, but they tend to appear at slightly different stages or require more practice. Pedaled riding and solo stair climbing without support are generally less consistently seen as a core 3- to 4-year-old milestone, while balancing on one foot briefly fits this age range best.

Gross motor skills involve large movements using big muscles, like balancing and coordinating the legs. For 3- to 4-year-olds, showing the ability to balance on one foot briefly demonstrates static balance and control, a skill that commonly emerges around this age. Riding a toy with pedals, climbing on and off furniture, and walking up stairs without support are all gross motor activities too, but they tend to appear at slightly different stages or require more practice. Pedaled riding and solo stair climbing without support are generally less consistently seen as a core 3- to 4-year-old milestone, while balancing on one foot briefly fits this age range best.