What principle of physical growth refers to movements becoming more defined with age?

The principle of physical growth that refers to movements becoming more defined with age is best captured by the concept of "general to specific." This principle indicates that as children develop physically, their movements transition from being broad and generalized to more refined and specific. For instance, a young child may use large, gross motor movements for actions like running or jumping. As they age and practice these skills, they gain better control and coordination, allowing for more intricate movements like throwing a ball accurately or performing complex dance steps.

This principle emphasizes the natural progression in developing motor skills, where the initial stages involve less precision and larger movements before advancing to more coordinated and focused actions. This understanding underscores the importance of age-appropriate activities that target specific motor skills, fostering a child's physical development through practice and experience.