Define motor development. Discuss in detail the factors that affect motor development in children.

Motor development refers to the development of a child’s bones, muscles and the ability to move around
and manipulate his or her environment. In fact, motor development is the progressive change in movement
throughout the life.
Following are factors which affect the motor development in children :

(i)	Biological Factors : Biological factors are related to the genes. These factors are also known as hereditary or genetic factors. The genes which we get from our parents are responsible for various

types of development including motor development. The percentage of fast twitch fibres and slow
twitch fibres depends on biological factors.(ii) Nutrition : Nutrition is also liable to affect the motor development. In fact, nutritious food promotes
good motor development. Sensory motor development is dependent upon nutrition. If children get
nutritious food they become stronger which ultimately leads to good motor development.(iii) Physical Activities : Taking part in regular physical activities enhances the motor development at a
faster rate. But the physical activities must be in accordance with the capabilities of the children.(iv) Postural Deformities : Any postural deformity, like, spinal curvature deformities, flatfoot, bow leg
etc., creates obstacles in the path of motor development. The motor skills in the children with no
postural deformity develop at a fast rate