How Physical Skills Develop, Age by Age

When will your child learn to run, jump, or throw a ball? Check this reference guide.

Ages

2-9

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While all children are different, and develop physical skills, from walking up stairs to jumping rope to catching a ball, at different speeds. Most, however, will acquire motor skills along the age-by-age timeline listed below. 


2 to 3 years old:

  • walk up and down stairs; jump off one step 
  • kick a ball 
  • stand and walk on tiptoe 
  • run; dodge

3 to 4 years old:

  • walk backward and forward unselfconsciously; turn and stop well 
  • jump off low steps or objects, but find it hard to jump over objects 
  • begin to ride trikes and pump on swings
  • stand on one foot unsteadily; balance with difficulty on low four-inch balance beam while watching their feet
  • play actively, but tire suddenly

4 to 5 years old:

  • skip unevenly; run well 
  • stand on one foot for five seconds or more; master the low balance beam
  • alternate feet when walking down stairs; judge well when placing feet on climbing structures
  • jump on a small trampoline 
  • show awareness of things in environment (such as cars on the street), but still need supervision and help protecting self
  • have increased endurance in play

5 to 6 years old:

  • walk backward quickly; skip and run with agility and speed
  • incorporate motor skills into games
  • walk a two-inch balance beam easily; jump over objects
  • hop well; jump down several steps; jump rope
  • climb well; coordinate movements for swimming or bike riding
  • show uneven perceptual judgment
  • have high energy levels in play and rarely show signs of fatigue; find inactivity difficult and seek active games and environments

7 years old and up:

  • have increased coordination for catching and throwing
  • be able to participate in active games with rules
  • sequence motor activities, as with gymnastics or shooting baskets
  • have improved reaction time in responding to thrown balls or oncoming vehicles
Gross Motor Skills
Stages & Milestones
Age 9
Age 8
Age 7
Age 6
Age 5
Age 4
Age 3
Age 2
Child Development and Behavior
Physical Development