Physical Developmental Checklist

Developmental milestone charts do not always reflect each child’s unique pace of physical growth. Your child may show one or more of the signs listed below, but that does not necessarily mean they are off track. Every child develops at their own rate. However, physical therapy can be a valuable tool in supporting your child’s strength, coordination, balance, and overall motor development to help them build confidence and reach their full potential.

Newborn – 2 Months

Enjoys tummy time and begins to establish head control

Moves head and neck freely

Does not show a preference for head position, tilt, or movements of extremities.

Has a strong grasp; Opens and closes hands

Brings hands mouth

Stretches out arms and hands open

Turns head to look at outstretched hand

3 – 5 Months

Lifts head and chest during tummy time

Pushes up on forearms (and beginning to push through hands)

Rolls from tummy to back

Holds head steady when supported in sitting

Holds a toy when placed in hand

Reaches with arms to swat at toys

Kicks legs with stronger, more controlled movements

6-9 Months

Sits supported or leaning on hands and moves to sitting independently

Demonstrates the ability to reach for and manipulate objects in midline

Plays using purposeful arm movements (Peek-A-Boo; So Big!)

Moves objects between hands

Begins crawling or scooting

Bears weight through legs when supported standing

10 – 12 Months

Crawls efficiently on hands and knees

Pulls to stand using furniture

Cruises along furniture

Moves smoothly between sitting, crawling, and standing

Stands briefly without support

Squats to pick up toys while holding support

Climbs onto low surfaces

2 – 3 Years

Walks and runs with improved coordination

Climbs onto and down from furniture independently

Walks up and down stairs with support

Kicks a ball forward

Jumps in place with both feet

Begins standing briefly on one foot

Squats to pick up toys without losing balance

Rides a push toy or beginning to pedal a tricycle

3-4 Years

Runs with improved speed and control

Jumps forward with both feet

Stands on one foot for several seconds

Walks up and down stairs with alternating feet

Catches a large ball with arms

Pedals a tricycle

Climbs playground equipment with supervision

Begins hopping on one foot

4 – 5 Years

Hops on one foot multiple times

Skips or begins to learn skipping

Catches and throws a ball with better accuracy

Walks heel-to-toe in a straight line

Climbs ladders and playground structures confidently

Jumps forward and over small objects

Demonstrates good balance during play

5 – 6 Years

Skips smoothly and consistently

Hops on one foot with good balance

Catches and throws a ball with control and accuracy

Jumps rope or attempts coordinated jumping patterns

Maintains balance while walking on narrow surfaces

Runs, stops, and changes direction with control

Participates confidently in playground and sports activities