An Introduction to Reflexes in Newborn Babies
Newborn babies come equipped with a healthy variety of talents. Researchers have found that these talents, or reflexes, actually help babies engage with their caretakers to foster the special bonds that ensure they will be taken care of.
Here are the reflexes most newborns are born with:
- Rooting reflex
- Palmer grasp reflex
- Moro reflex (the "startle" reflex)
- Galant reflex
- Extrusion reflex
- Plantar grasp
- Stepping reflex
- Tonic neck reflex.
Newborn Reflexes Explained
The following sections explain in detail the types of reflexes generally seen in a newborn.
Rooting Reflex
You'll notice the rooting reflex in your newborn if you gently
stroke its right cheek. She will turn her head to the right, usually looking for a nipple. The same should happen on the left side as well. This is called "rooting." It can even happen by accident if the baby brushes her own face with her hands or sleeve.
Palmar Grasp Reflex
This is always a fun one to see. If you place your finger into the palm of your baby's hand, his fingers will grasp your finger and hold on tightly. It's as if he were born knowing that he wanted to hold your hand!
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