Delayed motor development in children

Gross motor skills are the movements a child learns in order to control their neck, trunk, arms and legs, then to move around and explore. Each major milestone is reached within a fairly wide age range: walking alone, for example, usually comes between 14 and 20 months. These ages are guides for assessment, not a diagnosis; not all children go through crawling on all fours.

Page reviewed on October 30, 2026

Common signs

At around 3 months, does not lift their head for a few moments when lying on their tummy
Does not roll over or does not sit without support at 9 months
No way of getting around on their own at 12 months
Not walking alone at 15 months for a girl or 18 months for a boy
Struggles to move from one position to another
Clear difference in strength, movement or muscle tone between the right and left sides of the body
Strong preference for one hand before 18 months
Does not react to sounds or to what they see

When to see a doctor

The child loses skills they had already learned: report it without waiting
One or more of the signs above: report them to the child’s doctor

What physiotherapy does

The physiotherapist starts by assessing the child’s motor skills to understand their difficulties and needs. The physiotherapist then sets up an exercise programme that supports well-balanced motor development, and gives advice on how to support this development. If other needs appear, the physiotherapist refers the child to the right services and professionals.

Techniques used at the practice

Mobilisation and play that encourage trunk control, rolling over, changes of position, getting around and balance. Adapting the surroundings and advice for parents. The goals follow the child’s abilities, without imposing a single pattern of development.

How the sessions go

A discussion about the birth and the skills acquired; observation of spontaneous movements, muscle tone and symmetry; use of age-appropriate tools when necessary. Goals shared with the family and regular reassessments. The length of follow-up depends on the cause and on progress.

My pain diaryFill it in every day, show it at your session

Advice

Encourage play on the floor in safety, with an adult present. Offer the baby time on their tummy while awake and supervised; lay them on their back to sleep. Do not force standing, and do not use a baby walker as a treatment.

Sources

Developmental delay guidance (new tab)Cambridgeshire Children's Physiotherapy Service (East of England Community Health and Care NHS Trust), accessed October 26, 2026
Under 2s development (new tab)Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust, accessed October 26, 2026
Dépliant d'information à l'intention des usagers et de leurs proches : Service de physiothérapie pédiatrique (new tab)CISSS des Laurentides (Québec), accessed October 26, 2026