Fine motor · Milestone

Reaches for a toy

Most children: 3m–6m

What it is

Sees something interesting and swipes or reaches for it on purpose.

Start preparing

Hold a toy just within arm's reach and wait — resist handing it over.
A play gym or a toy strung across the car seat gives dozens of practice reaches a day.
Offer light, easy-to-grab objects: a cloth ring, a wooden rattle, a crinkly book.

When to check with a professional

If by 6 months the baby does not try to get things that are in reach, or uses only one hand consistently, mention it at the next visit.

Passes a toy from hand to hand

Sources

Learn the Signs. Act Early. — milestone checklists (2022 revision) — CDC / American Academy of Pediatrics · checked 30-08-2026

Last reviewed 30-08-2026 · Confidence: high

Compiled with AI assistance from the public sources listed above. Not yet reviewed by a clinician — check anything important against the source, with Tipat Halav or with your doctor.