Which fine motor red flag indicates a potential issue in toddlers?

The indication of hand preference before 18 months is considered a fine motor red flag because it can suggest underlying neurological issues or atypical development. During this early stage of growth, toddlers usually experiment with both hands to develop ambidexterity and hand-eye coordination. A strong preference for one hand over the other may hinder this exploration and could point to developmental concerns.

In contrast, the other options reflect milestones that, if not met, do not necessarily indicate a significant issue at that specific age. For example, not using crayons by 12 months may be less concerning, as children at this age are still in the exploratory phase of their motor skills. Not stacking blocks by 2 years could suggest a delay in motor skills but is not as definitive as early hand dominance. Similarly, not scribbling by 18 months may reflect individual variation in development rather than a clear developmental red flag.

Understanding these developmental timelines is critical in pediatrics for identifying potential delays and ensuring appropriate interventions are in place.