Motor Development

Chapter 4

Reflexes

unlearned, automatic responses

survival mechanics

gross motor skills

large body movements

proceeds cephalocauldually, individual differences in timing and form, movement brings about new opportunities, continuity, coordination, balance, and strength lend confidence.

fine motor skills

small, precise finger movement

progressive refinement, requires cognitive capacities and brain maturation, aids sufficiency, and generally retained across the lifespan

the nature and nurture

nature - maturation, preterm vs fullterm, and universal sequence ; genetics - twin studies, brain development: pruning and myelination

nurture - health and wellness, practice and encouragement, and barriers ; safety and restrictive clothing

age related change in motor skills

peaks in 20s - strength, endurance, coordination, reaction time

maintenance - use it or lose it, declines in sensory systems, in coordination, may be to blame, may require more cognitive effort

Senescence in muscle strength, bone density, and flexibility (gait and speed, balance, and reach)