A 9-month-old infant can sit without support, pincer grasp is not yet present, and she says 'mama' non-specifically. She transfers objects hand-to-hand and waves bye-bye inconsistently. Which skill is EXPECTED to develop NEXT (around 9–10 months)?
- A Walking independently
- B Emerging pincer grasp (inferior/lateral pincer) ✓
- C Mature pincer grasp (thumb-index tip)
- D Index finger pointing at objects
Correct answer: B. Emerging pincer grasp (inferior/lateral pincer)
Explanation
Fine motor development follows a predictable sequence: palmar grasp (5–6 months) → radial raking (7 months) → inferior/lateral pincer (9 months) → mature tip pincer (12 months). At 9 months, the inferior pincer (using the lateral surface of the index finger and thumb opposition) is expected to emerge, progressing to the mature pincer at 12 months. Index finger pointing as a social-communicative gesture emerges at 9–10 months. Independent walking is a 12-month milestone. This question tests the distinction between inferior pincer (9 months) and mature pincer (12 months).
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.