Gross Motor Skills
Gross motor skills are a child’s ability to use their whole body for movement and coordination. These skills support play, sport and everyday activities, and include strength, balance, posture, endurance and motor planning.

Strength and endurance
Using muscles to move, play and maintain activity over time.
Balance and posture
Maintaining body position during sitting, standing and movement.
Coordination and motor planning
Planning and sequencing body movements for activities such as running, climbing or riding a bike.
Gross motor skills develop over time and vary between children.
Gross Motor Skills Assessment
A gross motor assessment is strengths-based and child-centred. It may include:
- Observation of movement, balance and coordination.
- Play-based physical activities.
- Review of posture, strength and endurance.
- Discussion of participation at home, school and in the community.
The assessment identifies strengths, challenges and functional goals.
Gross Motor Skills Therapy
Gross motor therapy is individualised and supportive. Therapy may:
- Build strength, balance and coordination.
- Support motor planning for physical activities.
- Improve confidence and participation in play and sport.
- Adapt activities to suit each child’s needs.
The focus is on safe, confident movement and meaningful participation.
For more information on Gross Motor Skills, visit:
- The Gross Motor Development Chart page on the Kid Sense website: https://childdevelopment.com.au/areas-of-concern/sensory-processing/self-regulation/
- The Developmental Milestones page on the NSW Government website: https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/kids-health-hub/growth-and-development/babies/milestones
