Grasping typically comes after batting and reaching, but will continue to progress with greater precision throughout baby’s entire first year! Grasping is a fundamental motor skill that evolves as your baby grows and develops.
Here's a general timeline:
Reflexive Grasping (0-3 months):Your baby will exhibit reflexive or involuntary grasping in the early weeks of life. When an object is placed in their palm or brushes against their hand, their fingers will automatically close around it. This reflex is known as the "palmar grasp reflex."
Voluntary Grasping (3-6 months):Between 3 and 6 months of age, you'll notice a shift from reflexive to voluntary or intentional grasping. Your baby will start to explore objects intentionally by reaching for and grabbing them. At this stage, their hand-eye coordination is improving, and they are becoming more aware of their hands and the objects they interact with.
Raking Grasp (6-9 months):Around 6 to 9 months, your baby will be able to rake objects toward themselves. They'll use all of their fingers to drag items closer, but they may not yet use their thumb to grasp. This is a transitional stage towards a more refined grasp.
Pincer Grasp (9-12 months):The pincer grasp typically emerges between 9 and 12 months. This is a significant development where your baby can pick up small objects between their thumb and forefinger. It allows for more precise manipulation of objects and is a crucial skill for self-feeding and other fine motor tasks.
Encourage their hand strength by placing toys within their reach during tummy time or when sitting up, and observe as they gain mastery over their grasping abilities.