A normal baby is able to self-spoon-feed at the age of
**Core Concept**
Self-spoon-feeding in infants is a milestone of gross motor development, requiring coordination between the hands, arms, and trunk muscles. It involves the ability to hold a spoon, bring it to the mouth, and then move it back to the starting position. This skill is typically achieved by around 6-8 months of age.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The development of self-spoon-feeding skills in infants is closely tied to the maturation of their hand and finger muscles. As the pincer grasp (thumb and index finger opposition) develops, infants are able to hold small objects like spoons. The ability to coordinate the arms and hands also improves, allowing for more precise movements. This is in line with the expected milestones of fine motor development in infants.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This answer choice is too early, as most infants are not developmentally ready to self-spoon-feed before 6 months.
**Option C:** 12 months is too late, as most infants are able to self-spoon-feed by this age, but it is not a typical milestone at this stage.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Infants typically master self-spoon-feeding skills between 6-8 months of age, but the exact timing can vary depending on individual developmental pace.
**Correct Answer:** C. 9-12 months