6 Fascinating Newborn Reflexes that May Surprise You

Last Updated on February 14th, 2019

{Newborn reflexes are a fascinating aspect of early development. Let’s explore the meaning behind some of these “hidden” behaviors that are present in newborns.}

Babies are born with several innate reflexes and mysteriously disappear after the first few months of life. For some, their function is clear; they usually help the baby survive in some way. Others, however, are a bit of a mystery to scientists as to why they exist.

Some of these are very obvious, but I was surprised at the few that you wouldn’t necessarily notice unless you knew what to look for.

Fascinating Newborn Reflexes:

Moro reflex: When startled or moved position abruptly (as if falling), babies will instinctively extend their arms, legs, and neck as if grasping for something to hold onto.

Stepping reflex: This one is kind of mysterious. If you hold a newborn upright under the arms, supporting his/her head and neck, he/she will begin stepping as if walking. The odd thing is that this reflex disappears by about 2 months of age and doesn’t return until the baby gets ready to walk several months later.

Related reading: The Lifelong Reach of a Baby’s Temperament

Rooting reflex: This one is obvious to most moms right away. When you stroke a baby’s cheek, he/she will turn his/her head in that direction. This, of course, is the baby’s way of looking for a nipple in anticipation of being fed.

newborn reflexes

Babinski reflex: This one is a bit of a mystery too. When a baby’s foot is stroked, the toes fan out and the foot turns slightly inward. It is not clear why this reflex exists.

Palmar reflex: When an object or finger is placed in baby’s hand, he/she will grasp onto it. Usually the grip will get stronger if you try to pull the object away. Who knew this was a reflex! I just thought it was cute

Gallant (swimmers) reflex: This is another one I would have never thought to look for. When holding a baby facing down across your arm (back facing you), if you stroke alongside his/her spine the back will curve/squirm to the side you stroke. It looks almost as if the baby is swimming (hence the name).

The video below shows many of these reflexes in action. Babies are amazing, aren’t they?