In school-age children with Down syndrome, which area should be emphasized along with advanced gross motor skills?

• A. Balance
• B. Fine motor skills
• C. Hearing
• D. Nutrition management

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that balance and postural control underlie the successful acquisition of more advanced gross motor skills in school-age children with Down syndrome. Hypotonia and ligamentous laxity common in Down syndrome disrupt stability, so improving balance helps with safer, more efficient performance of higher-level movements like running, jumping, and navigating stairs or playground equipment. Strengthening core and proximal musculature, along with dynamic and static balance training, supports trunk control and alignment during movement, which in turn enhances overall gross motor function and participation in daily activities.

Hearing and nutrition are essential for overall development, but they don’t directly drive the mastery of advanced gross motor skills. Fine motor skills matter for classroom tasks, but they don’t address the stability and control needed for dynamic gross-motor activities.