Gross Motor

Definition: Gross motor refers to movements that involve large muscle groups and are generally more broad and energetic than fine motor movements. These may include walking, kicking, jumping, and climbing stairs. Children with neurological problems, developmental delays, or disabilities that affect movement may receive physical therapy to help with gross motor skills, or may need modifications or assistive technology to keep up with mobility or athletics in spite of these delays. For more information on how to address gross motor problems, see our section on Physical Therapy.