Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Which factor is crucial for normal motor skill development in infants?

1. Consistent nutrition

2. Regular social interaction

3. Opportunities for physical activity

4. Exposure to educational materials

The correct answer is: Opportunities for physical activity

Opportunities for physical activity are essential for normal motor skill development in infants. Motor skills develop through a combination of physical growth and experiences that allow infants to practice movement. When infants engage in physical activity, they strengthen their muscles and improve their coordination and balance, which are critical for both gross motor skills (like crawling and walking) and fine motor skills (like grasping and manipulating objects). Engaging in varied physical activities enables infants to explore their environment, which further enhances their motor skills through practice and feedback from their movements. While consistent nutrition is important for overall development and growth, and regular social interaction can aid in emotional and cognitive development, these factors alone do not directly facilitate the physical experiences necessary for motor skill advancement. Similarly, exposure to educational materials, though beneficial for cognitive growth, does not substitute for the hands-on, physical experiences that support motor skill development in infants.