A 15-month-old child can walk independently, say 3-4 meaningful words, use a cup, and point to objects of interest. At what age should a child NORMALLY develop a pincer grasp (thumb-forefinger apposition)?
- A 9 months ✓
- B 6 months
- C 12 months
- D 15 months
Correct answer: A. 9 months
Explanation
The pincer grasp (neat or inferior pincer using distal thumb and index finger pulps) develops at 9 months. Before this, at 6-7 months, the child uses a palmar or raking grasp. By 9 months, the pincer grasp reflects maturation of the corticospinal tracts. This is a key fine motor milestone and its absence at 12 months warrants developmental evaluation. Other 9-month milestones include standing with support, stranger anxiety, and babbling with consonant-vowel combinations.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.