Which developmental pattern indicates that an infant's arms develop before their hands?

Proximodistal development refers to the pattern of growth and motor control that occurs from the center of the body outward to the extremities. In infants, this means that their arms and larger body parts develop before their hands and fingers. This pattern illustrates how infants gain control over their larger muscles (like those in the arms) before they master fine motor skills that involve smaller muscles (such as those in the hands). Therefore, as infants grow, they can first learn to reach out with their arms, which is essential for grasping objects later with their hands. This understanding of proximodistal development is foundational in early childhood education, as it informs educators and caregivers about the milestones to expect in an infant's physical development.