Which of the following movements typically occurs first in infants?

Rolling over is typically the first significant motor skill that infants develop. This movement usually occurs between 4 to 6 months of age and marks a crucial stage in their physical development. It represents an increase in strength and coordination as infants learn to use their muscles to shift their weight and turn their bodies.

Once they have mastered rolling over, infants typically progress to other movements such as crawling, which can begin around 7 to 10 months. Cruising—where infants start to move along furniture for support—usually happens around 9 to 12 months. Walking unassisted is generally the final milestone in this sequence and occurs around 12 months or later. Understanding this developmental progression highlights the importance of recognizing that rolling over is foundational to subsequent motor skills.