Health officials are urging parents and caregivers to prioritize the development of motor skills in young children, particularly the foundational abilities of sitting, standing, and walking. These skills are crucial not only for self-sufficiency but also for long-term cognitive and emotional development. Early identification of developmental delays and appropriate stimulation are key, experts say.
Dr. Amporn Benjapolpitak, Director-General of the Department of Health, explained that gross motor development is a vital indicator of a child’s growth, especially during the rapid brain and nervous system development between ages 0-3. “Appropriate stimulation during this period promotes strong neural connections and reduces the risk of developmental delays,” she said. According to Dr. Benjapolpitak, typical milestones include the ability to sit independently and grab first steps between 12-15 months, walking more steadily and beginning to climb by 18 months, running, kicking a ball, and jumping on two feet by age 2, and navigating stairs and riding a tricycle by age 3.
Dr. Nongnuch Patronanthanap, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, noted that although individual development varies, parents should seek evaluation if a child is not sitting independently by 9 months or walking by 18 months. She highlighted key warning signs to watch for, including significant muscle weakness or rigidity, a lack of effort to move or change position, a consistent preference for one hand before age 1, or loss of previously acquired skills. “Playing with your child every day and providing opportunities for free movement in a safe environment are essential for fostering development,” Dr. Patronanthanap advised. She specifically recommended “Tummy Time” for infants – supervised face-down play to strengthen neck, shoulder, back, and core muscles – and creating safe spaces for pulling to stand and walking.
Experts also caution against the use of baby walkers, which they say do not accelerate walking and may even hinder development. Dr. Thipa Krailash, Director of the Bureau of Health Promotion, stated that baby walkers can actually delay a child’s walking progress as the movement pattern differs from natural walking and doesn’t allow for appropriate muscle development. Many countries have banned their sale due to safety concerns. These concerns include the risk of falls down stairs, fractures, burns from accessing hot objects, and even drowning. The findings underscore the importance of creating a safe environment for a child’s natural motor development.
Dr. Krailash elaborated on the dangers of baby walkers, citing risks such as falls from heights, head injuries, access to hazardous materials, and potential drowning incidents. She recommended safer alternatives like playpens or enclosed areas for practicing standing and walking, walking on safe surfaces or foam mats, close supervision near stairs, allowing children to walk barefoot or in soft-soled shoes, and encouraging activities like rolling balls and age-appropriate climbing. These strategies, she said, will facilitate promote healthy motor development in young children.
