Which activity is an example of a gross-motor manipulative skill for a child at Pre-K3?

• A. Throws a ball or other object
• B. Hops on one foot
• C. Draws a straight line
• D. Reads a picture book

Answer: (A)

Gross-motor manipulative skills involve using large muscle groups to handle or move an object. Throwing a ball or other object uses the body to project an external object, which is exactly this kind of skill and age-appropriate for Pre-K3. Hopping on one foot focuses on balance and coordination without manipulating an object. Drawing a straight line is a fine motor task centered on precise hand movements, and reading a picture book is a cognitive/language activity with little object manipulation. So, throwing a ball is the best example.