Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What is a common gross-motor skill that develops last in children?

1. Walking independently

2. Jumping forward

3. Crawling

4. Throwing a ball

The correct answer is: Jumping forward

Jumping forward is indeed a common gross-motor skill that typically develops later in a child's motor skill progression compared to the others listed. The sequence of gross-motor development generally begins with foundational skills such as crawling, which is one of the first large movements children make as they learn to coordinate their limbs. Following crawling, children typically achieve independent walking, marking a significant milestone in their mobility. Throwing a ball is also a skill that develops relatively early on, often after walking is established. As children become more adept at using their body, they start to experiment with various forms of locomotion and coordination. Jumping, including jumping forward specifically, requires a higher level of coordination, balance, and strength, as it involves propelling the body into the air and landing safely. This complexity means that while children may walk and throw much sooner, they often master jumping forward later in their development.