Story at-a-glance Maternal body fat percentage during pregnancy correlates with increased risk of developmental coordination disorder in children, affecting their motor skills and coordination Mothers who consumed nutrient-dense foods like fish, fruits, and vegetables during pregnancy had children with better motor skills and cognitive development The first trimester is a crucial period where maternal health and diet have the strongest impact on a child's future motor and cognitive abilities Children of mothers who ate a healthier diet showed better intelligence, visual-spatial skills, executive function, and fewer behavioral problems Recommendations for pregnant women include maintaining healthy body composition, consuming nutrient-dense whole foods, getting adequate sunlight, and managing mental health