Developmental: normal variations /
Late walkers and crawlers
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Commentary from American Academy of Paediatrics in relation to gross motor milestones and language development
A child's language development in infancy and early childhood correlates closely with cognitive development and, thus, is a better predictor of cognitive function than gross motor development. The acquisition and use of language is critical to a child's development in the areas of cognitive and social development. Phonemic awareness is the ability to attend to phonemes (speech sounds) that are used in syllables and words and is a critical language skill in the development of reading.
The delay in achieving gross motor milestones has the weakest correlation with general intellectual functioning and, therefore, is not a strong predictor of school success. Mildly delayed gross motor skills and a nonfocal neurologic examination do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Handwriting skills are affected by weakness in fine (not gross) motor development.
American Board of Pediatrics Content Specification(s):
• Understand that language development in infancy and early childhood is a better predictor of cognitive function than motor development
The information is not intended to take the place of medical advice.
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Last updated: 26/09/2013