Motor milestones
Welcome to EMpower PT! We work with families who want to receive pediatric physical therapy in a safe environment. We ensure each babe is comfortable, engaged, and happy. Use the ‘Contact’ page above to schedule a consultation today.
What are Motor Milestones?
Published recommendations for ages at which children in the United States should achieve skills like sitting, crawling, standing, walking, jumping, etc. The recommendations are based off the age at which 75% of the US population achieve said skills.
When did the CDC Milestones change and why?
In early 2022 the CDC updated their milestone checklist to be more user friendly. The checklists were created with hopes of removing “plain language”, making checklists easy to use regardless of families religious/cultural/ethnic/social backgrounds, and displaying skills based on the 75th percentile.
What are the major differences between 2004 and 2022 milestones?
Independent Sitting at 9 months. Previously the milestone for sitting stated “begins to sit without support” at 6 months. Now the 9 Month Milestone specifies that the child can sit without support from arms, caregivers, or furniture.
Crawling was removed as a milestone. Although crawling is no longer a “required milestone” it is a skill that helps children explore their environment and provides hip and shoulder girdle strengthening. Up to 15% of children skip crawling naturally.
Pull to stand moved from 9 months to 12 months.
Hopping on 1 foot was moved from 4 years to 5 years.
Where can I find more information?
If you are a parent looking for more information, I recommend downloading the CDC Milestone Tracker app which is linked below. The CDC website also offers a printable milestone checklist which I recommend filling out before your child’s well visits.
If you are a clinician looking for more information, be sure to read:
‘ “Learn the Signs. Act Early.”: Updates and Implications for Physical Therapists.’ written by Kretch, Kari S. PT, DPT, PhD; Willett, Sandra L. PT, PhD; Hsu, Lin-Ya PT, PhD; Sargent, Barbara A. PT, PhD; Harbourne, Regina T. PT, PhD; Dusing, Stacey C. PT, PhD.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is based on evidenced based research and professional opinion. This should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Please see your pediatrician or other healthcare provider.