What is a key characteristic of fine motor skills development in childhood?

The ability to play an instrument is a key characteristic of fine motor skills development in childhood. Fine motor skills refer to the small movements of the hands and fingers that require precision and coordination. Playing an instrument involves intricate finger movements, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to control the instrument to produce music accurately. This activity strengthens the small muscles in the hands and enhances dexterity, which is a vital aspect of fine motor skills development.

In contrast, the other choices focus on gross motor skills, which involve larger body movements. Running faster and jumping higher are examples of gross motor skills that primarily engage the larger muscles in the legs and body. Reading complex texts, while an important cognitive skill, does not specifically relate to fine motor skills as it does not require the same level of precision and coordination of the smaller muscle groups in the hands and fingers. Therefore, playing an instrument stands out as the most relevant option for fine motor skills development.