The Evolution of Movement
The Can-Dos
The Can-Do Journey: How Movement Unfolds in the Early Years
When babies are born, they have no understanding of their body, so they have no control over it. At first their movements are reflexive and unplanned. But in only a few months they’re already getting to know their body and what they can do with it. Then one day they roll over and the race is on to fully independent, coordinated, controlled, and automated movement.
Developmentally, movement is one of the most important journeys they’ll take from birth to about seven years old. So we’ve created The Can-Do Guide to celebrate just how far your child has come and give you an idea of what’s right around the corner.
But please remember, movement develops differently for every child. No matter how or when they advance, a child’s development isn’t necessarily fast or slow, right or wrong, good or bad. Instead, it’s nature unfolding right in front of your eyes. It comes together for them WHEN THEY’RE READY.
What You Can Do
Parents always want the best for their child, but trying to rush things won’t help (or work). You can support them with lots of time for active play and exploration, a nutritious diet, plenty of rest, and your loving home.
​
​
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Can-Do Guide is NOT a milestones chart. Every child is unique so your child’s progression may vary from what we’re showing here or what other children their age are doing. If you are concerned about your child’s development, consult your pediatrician.
The Can-Do Guide
Where is your child on their Can-Do journey?
PRE-NATAL
Primitive Reflexes
Involuntary Movement
Rolling Over
Hand & Foot
Recognition
Pushing Up
Postural Reflexes Emerging
Grasping
Mouthing
Primitive Reflexes
at Birth
Sensory
Awakening
Commando Crawling
Up on All Fours
Rocking
Pincer Grip
Navigating
Small Spaces
Cruising
Sitting Up
(Unaided)
Changing
Hands
Crawling
Pulling Up
Standing
(Unaided)
Climbing Up
Running
Walking
Crouching/
Bobbing
Jumping
in Place
Upper Body
Strength
Jumping
Forward
Manipulatives
Timing/
Temporal
Awareness
Marching
Handedness
Hopping
Standing on
One Foot
Climbing/
Scaling
Single-Sided
Movement
Hand & Foot
Dominance
Standing Leap
Crossing
Midlines
Running Leap
Skipping
READY!
Automated
Coordinated
Movement
And there's more...