The Role of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Supporting Gross Motor Development Among Children Aged 0–24 Months
A Literature Riview of Studies Published in 2020 - 2025
Keywords:
gross motor development, children aged 0–24 months, exclusive breastfeeding, child growth and development, narrative literature reviewAbstract
Background: Gross motor development is an important indicator of child growth and development during the first two years of life. One factor that may influence gross motor development is exclusive breastfeeding, which provides essential nutrients for neurological and physical growth.
Objective: This study aimed to analyze the role of exclusive breastfeeding in supporting gross motor development among children aged 0–24 months through a literature review approach.
Methods: This study employed a Narrative Literature Review design. Articles were searched through Google Scholar, Garuda, and accredited national journals using the keywords "exclusive breastfeeding," "gross motor development," and related terms. A total of 8 articles published between 2020 and 2025 that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed.
Results: Most studies indicated a positive relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and gross motor development in children aged 0–24 months. Children who received exclusive breastfeeding tended to achieve gross motor milestones more optimally than those who did not. However, gross motor development was also influenced by other factors, including nutritional status, environmental stimulation, parental education, and socioeconomic conditions.
Conclusion: Exclusive breastfeeding plays an important role in supporting gross motor development among children aged 0–24 months. Nevertheless, optimal child development requires not only adequate nutrition through breastfeeding but also supportive environmental and developmental factors.
Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, gross motor development, child development, infants, literature review
References
REFERENCES
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