What Is a Motor Skills Development Assessment?
A motor skills development assessment is an evaluation that measures a child's physical development across both gross motor skills (crawling, walking, balance, coordination) and fine motor skills (grasping, reaching, manipulating small objects). At Stars Assessment Center in San Jose, Northern CA, motor skills assessments for children ages 0 to 3 identify developmental delays in movement and physical function so that families can access early support during the most responsive years.
Physical milestones are often the first signs that parents notice. A child who is not crawling, walking, or reaching on schedule may benefit from a motor assessment. Early identification gives children the best chance to catch up with support.
Stars Assessment Center provides bilingual assessment support in Spanish, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Mandarin. Language should never be a barrier to getting answers about your child's development.
Signs Your Child May Need a Motor Skills Assessment
A motor skills evaluation may be helpful if your child:
- Is not rolling over or sitting independently within expected milestones
- Is not crawling or pulling up as expected for their age
- Has not started walking independently
- Frequently loses balance or appears unsteady when moving
- Seems stiff, floppy, or favors one side of the body
- Has difficulty grasping toys, picking up small items, or using both hands together
- Avoids physical movement or seems hesitant with age-appropriate activities
- Has been referred by a pediatrician for physical development concerns
How a Motor Skills Assessment Works at Stars
- Initial Consultation: We review your child's physical development history and identify which motor domains to evaluate.
- Gross and Fine Motor Evaluation: A specialist observes your child during age-appropriate activities to assess strength, coordination, balance, and fine motor control.
- Findings Explained Clearly: We review all results in plain language so you understand what was measured and what it means.
- Written Report and Next Steps: You receive a comprehensive report with findings and specific recommendations for therapy or early intervention services if indicated.
What To Expect at Stars Assessment Center
- Sessions are designed to feel supportive and comfortable for young children
- Evaluations include guided movement activities and natural observation
- Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay involved throughout the session
- Most assessments are completed in one to two visits
- You receive a written report and clear recommendations following the evaluation
Why Families Choose Stars for Motor Skills Assessments
- Specialists in physical development for children ages 0-3
- Assessments may be covered through the California Early Start program at no cost to eligible families
- Free initial consultation before any commitment
- Bilingual support in Spanish, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Mandarin
- Serving families across Santa Clara County, San Benito County, and Santa Cruz County
Is This Service Covered?
Motor skills development assessments at Stars Assessment Center may be covered through the California Early Start program at no cost to eligible families. Stars Assessment Center does not bill private insurance. Contact our team to find out whether your child qualifies for no-cost coverage through the Early Start program.
Note: Stars Assessment Center does not accept private insurance. Early Start program eligibility is determined during the free initial evaluation.
Supporting Movement, Strength, and Early Milestones
Understand your child's physical development with compassionate evaluations, expert guidance, and next steps tailored to their growing abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gross motor skills involve large movements like crawling, walking, and balancing. Fine motor skills involve smaller, precise movements like grasping, pinching, and object manipulation.
Most children walk independently by 12-15 months. If your 15-month-old is not yet walking, a motor skills assessment can provide clarity and connect your family to support if needed.
Yes. Physical therapy and early intervention services can significantly improve motor development outcomes when started early. Our assessment identifies delays and connects families to appropriate services.
No. Motor evaluations at Stars involve structured observation and gentle age-appropriate activities. Parents are present throughout, and sessions are designed to be comfortable for young children.