Which gross motor milestone is typically achieved first?

• A. Sitting without support
• B. Rolling over (front to back)
• C. Walking
• D. Babbling

Answer: (B)

Gross motor development follows a progression where infants gain control of their body before progressing to more complex movements. Rolling over from front to back is typically the first gross motor achievement among these options because it shows initial trunk and shoulder strength and helps the infant change orientation in space. It commonly occurs around 4 to 6 months. Sitting without support requires greater trunk control and balance and usually develops a bit later, around 6 to 8 months. Walking comes much later, around 12 months or beyond, as leg strength and coordination mature. Babbling is a language development milestone, not a gross motor one, so it doesn’t fit the motor progression. Therefore, rolling over from front to back is typically the earliest gross motor milestone among the choices.