CECE Physical Development & Motor Skills

Question 1

Which principle of motor development states that development proceeds from head to toe?

Accepted Answer

Cephalocaudal principle

Answer

The cephalocaudal principle describes how motor development progresses from the head downward through the trunk and eventually to the legs and feet.

Question 2

At what age do most typically developing children begin walking independently?

Accepted Answer

12–15 months

Answer

Most children take their first independent steps between 12 and 15 months, though a range of 9–18 months is considered within normal development.

Question 3

Which of the following is classified as a locomotor skill?

Accepted Answer

Galloping across the gym

Answer

Locomotor skills involve moving the body through space, and galloping is a foundational locomotor movement alongside running, jumping, hopping, and skipping.

Question 4

The proximodistal principle of motor development means development proceeds:

Accepted Answer

From the trunk outward to the extremities

Answer

The proximodistal principle describes development that originates at the center (trunk) of the body and moves outward toward the hands and feet.

Question 5

A 4-year-old who cannot yet hop on one foot may be demonstrating:

Accepted Answer

A potential gross motor delay

Answer

Hopping on one foot is typically mastered between ages 3 and 4, so inability at age 4 may indicate a gross motor delay warranting further observation or referral.

(CECE) Certified Early Childhood Educator Practice Test

(CECE) Certified Early Childhood Educator Practice Test

CECE Physical Development & Motor Skills