When do infants generally start reaching for objects?

Infants typically start reaching for objects around 6 months of age. At this stage of development, babies are gaining increased control over their arm and hand movements, allowing them to explore their environment more actively. Reaching is a significant milestone as it demonstrates the growing strength and coordination of the muscles needed for fine motor skills.

By 6 months, infants are not only improving their ability to grasp but are also developing their visual tracking, which enables them to see objects and reach out towards them. This is a crucial time for sensory and motor integration, as reaching for objects encourages exploration and interaction with their surroundings, further stimulating cognitive development.

While some infants may begin to show this behavior slightly earlier or later, 6 months is generally considered the average age at which most infants will start to purposefully reach for toys and other items within their reach.