Which skill is typically first developed by a 4-month-old?

Which skill is typically first developed by a 4-month-old?

• A. Hold a cup
• B. Stand with assistance
• C. Lift the head and shoulders
• D. Sit with the back straight

Answer: (C)

Motor development in infancy follows a head-to-toe progression, with control of the head coming before the trunk and before sitting. At about 4 months, babies typically gain enough neck and upper back strength to lift the head and shoulders when placed on their stomach, showing emerging trunk control. This milestone reflects the expected pattern of gross motor maturation and is appropriate for this age. In contrast, standing with assistance requires more leg strength and balance, and sitting upright with a straight back usually develops a bit later, once trunk control is well established. Holding a cup is a fine motor skill that develops even later, once infants have more coordinated hand use and trunk stability. Therefore, lifting the head and shoulders is the best fit for a typical 4-month-old.

Motor development in infancy follows a head-to-toe progression, with control of the head coming before the trunk and before sitting. At about 4 months, babies typically gain enough neck and upper back strength to lift the head and shoulders when placed on their stomach, showing emerging trunk control. This milestone reflects the expected pattern of gross motor maturation and is appropriate for this age. In contrast, standing with assistance requires more leg strength and balance, and sitting upright with a straight back usually develops a bit later, once trunk control is well established. Holding a cup is a fine motor skill that develops even later, once infants have more coordinated hand use and trunk stability. Therefore, lifting the head and shoulders is the best fit for a typical 4-month-old.