Motor Skills Milestones: When Should Parents Be Concerned?

Watching your child grow and develop new abilities is one of the greatest joys of parenting. From rolling over and crawling to walking and running, every achievement feels like a major celebration. However, for some families in Phnom Penh and across Cambodia, these milestones may come later than expected—or not at all.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we often meet parents who are concerned about their child’s motor development. It’s natural to wonder: “Is my child just taking a little longer, or is there something more I should be aware of?” This guide can help Cambodian parents understand typical motor development and know when to seek help.

Understanding Motor Skills Milestones

Motor skills are generally divided into two categories:

• Gross Motor Skills: Movements involving large muscle groups (e.g., rolling over, crawling, walking, jumping).

• Fine Motor Skills: Movements involving smaller muscles for precise actions (e.g., grasping objects, holding a pencil, buttoning clothes).

While every child develops at their own pace, there are general timelines for key motor skills milestones:

Signs That May Indicate a Delay

Parents in Phnom Penh should monitor for signs that could indicate a motor skills delay:

Gross Motor Red Flags

• Stiff or floppy muscle tone

• Inability to sit without support by 9 months

• Not crawling by 12 months

• Not walking independently by 18 months

Fine Motor Red Flags

• Difficulty grasping or holding objects

• Trouble bringing hands together

• Avoidance of activities requiring hand control (like coloring or stacking blocks)

If you notice any of these signs, it doesn’t mean something is seriously wrong, but it’s a good idea to consult with a professional for further assessment.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

At OrbRom Center, our occupational therapy services focus on identifying and supporting children who are experiencing motor delays. We provide:

1. Developmental Assessments

Our team can perform detailed assessments to determine whether your child’s motor skills are on track compared to developmental norms.

2. Individualized Therapy Plans

Every child is unique. We create custom therapy plans that focus on building strength, coordination, and fine motor precision through fun, play-based activities.

3. Parent Guidance and Support

We work closely with parents to integrate therapy strategies into the child’s daily routine at home, ensuring consistency and faster progress.

The earlier these delays are addressed, the better the outcomes. Early intervention allows children to build essential skills that set the foundation for future learning and independence.

When to Seek Help in Phnom Penh

If you have concerns about your child’s motor development, don’t wait. Trust your instincts and speak with a pediatrician or occupational therapist. Early support can make a huge difference.

OrbRom Center is here to guide families through this process. Our experienced occupational therapists offer professional advice and customized therapy for children in Phnom Penh who need extra help meeting their motor milestones.

Conclusion

It’s important to remember that every child develops differently. But if your child seems significantly behind on motor milestones, early intervention can prevent long-term challenges.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we are dedicated to supporting children with developmental delays through compassionate and effective occupational therapy. We believe that with the right guidance and care, every child can reach their fullest potential.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward supporting your child’s growth.