Which of the following are most appropriate for motor development for Leah?

• A. Reading a book to her at bedtime every night
• B. Putting her in an infant walker with rollers
• C. Letting her play with kitchen utensils, such as bowls and spoons
• D. Giving her several types of baby rattles

Answer: (C)

Providing Leah with safe, hands-on objects at her stage of development supports motor growth by inviting active use of her hands and coordination. Letting her play with kitchen utensils such as bowls and spoons gives a variety of sizes, weights, textures, and edges that encourage different grasp patterns, reaching, transferring objects between hands, banging, and improved hand–eye coordination. This kind of open-ended, functional play helps refine fine motor skills and builds confidence in manipulating objects, which translates to everyday tasks later on. Reading to her at bedtime mainly boosts language, cognitive development, and bonding, rather than directly strengthening motor skills. Infant walkers are discouraged due to safety concerns and the potential to delay natural motor progression. Rattles promote grasping and movement, which is helpful, but the broader motor experiences offered by playing with utensils provide more comprehensive motor development.