The primary occupations of infants, toddlers, and young children are playing, learning, and interacting with
caregivers and, eventually, their peers. Occupational therapy interventions address developmental milestones such
as (but not limited to), facilitating movement to sit, crawl, or walk independently; learning to pay attention and
follow simple instructions; developing the ability to eat, drink, wash, and dress independently; learning to cope
with disappointment or failure; reducing extraneous environmental stimuli (Sensory Processing Deficits), such as
noise for a child who is easily distracted. As well as address turn taking skills, sharing and playing with peers;
using toys and materials in both traditional and creative ways; and participating in age appropriate daily
routines. Referenced from AOTA.org
2-3 Months
Lifts head while in prone (lying on tummy)
Opens and closes hands
Follows a toy with eyes from side to side
Brings hands together toward middle of body
Attempts to reach for a toy
Grasps a small toy placed in hand
4-6 Months
Rolls belly to back (both to right and left sides)
Hits at dangling toys with hands
Lifts head while in prone (lying on tummy)
Raises entire chest when on stomach and bears weight on hands
Rolls back to belly (both to right and left sides)
6 Months
Begins to sit using hands for support
Transfers toys from hand to hand
Reaches with increased control for a toy
Shakes and bangs toys
7-9 Months
Sustained sitting without using their arms for support
Crawls on hands and knees with stomach off the floor (9 months)
Feeds self finger foods (8 months+)
Moves into sitting position independently
Explores objects with hands and mouth
9 Months
Sits well to play
Imitates simple play such as “peek a boo”
Pulls self up to stand using furniture
1 Year
Pulls off socks and shoes
Cooperates with dressing (helps to pull off clothing; extends arms and legs to assist with dressing)
Scribbles on paper
Stands alone
Walking (1-2 steps alone)
Uses thumb and pointer finger to pick up small objects
15 Months
Drinks from a sippy cup independently
Stacks 2 blocks
Walks well with infrequent falls
Squats to pick up an object and stands up again without falling
1-2 Years
Throws/kicks balls
Spoon feeds
2 Years
Snips with scissors
Imitates horizontal, vertical lines and circular marks
Assists with undressing
Builds at least a 6 block tower
Pushes, pulls or carries toys while walking (18 months)
-Putting on and taking off shoes and socks
Growth and development occurs differently for every child. If you are concerned about your child’s
development please speak with your pediatrician or call us at 563-441-3000 to schedule a FREE screen.