Difference Between Fine Motor and Gross Motor Skills
Fine and gross motor skills are both very important to a child's development; however, understanding the difference between the two is crucial. The difference primarily lies in what type of muscles are performing the action. Find out some more information about the two skill sets below.
Gross Motor Skills:
Involves the larger muscle groups in the body to perform large movements
Develops before fine motor skills with milestones such as rolling, crawling, sitting, pulling to stand etc.
This skill set is the foundation in order to have control over fine motor skills
Vital for participation in sports, physical activity and mobility
Power and coordination are the building blocks to developing gross motor skills
Fine Motor Skills:
Involves the smaller muscle groups in the hands and fingers that work to perform precise movements and control small objects
Important for carrying out daily tasks such as utensil use, fasteners, shoe tying, handwriting, and scissor use etc.
Emphasis on precision and control rather than power
Develops further into infancy as opposed to gross motor skills
Typically coincides with precise hand eye coordination tasks
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