Which type of motor development involves the use of large muscle groups?

Gross motor development involves the use of large muscle groups to perform movements that require balance, coordination, and strength. This type of development is crucial in early childhood as it encompasses activities such as running, jumping, throwing, and climbing, which are essential for a child's physical growth and overall motor skill acquisition.

In contrast, fine motor development specifically refers to the use of smaller muscle groups to perform more intricate tasks that often involve hand-eye coordination, such as writing, buttoning shirts, or manipulating small objects. While both fine and gross motor skills are important for a child's development, the distinguishing factor here is that gross motor development focuses on larger, whole-body movements that are foundational to a child's physical capabilities and mobility.