Sneak peek: 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.
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. These newborn baby reflexes are a fascinating aspect of child development and parenting.
What are the 5 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 newborn reflex 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.
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.
Babinski reflex:
This baby reflex 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 a 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.
Plus a *Bonus* Hidden Reflex
Gallant (swimming) reflex:
This is another one of the newborn reflexes 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).
Related reading: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the 4 Attachment Styles
When Do Newborn Reflexes Disappear?
Since these newborn reflexes are innate and involuntary, they gradually disappear as the baby matures.
Moro (or startle) reflex: this reflex that occurs when a baby is moved abruptly usually disappears by around 6 months old. Once this reflex disappears, babies typically don’t startle themselves awake when sleeping as easily. Many times swaddling a baby is less necessarily once this reflex subsides.
Stepping reflex: although this reflex is based in our body’s primitive walking motion, it disappears by about 2 months of age. Generally, it doesn’t return until the baby gets ready to walk at about 12 months of age.
Rooting reflex: this reflex is necessary for the baby to learn to nurse. It usually disappears around 4 months of age. By this time, the baby can move his/her head more voluntarily in position for nursing.
Babinski reflex: although the origin of this reflex is unknown, it usually disappears by about 2 years of age. It can, however, disappear much earlier (as early as 12 months). It’s important to note that the presence of this reflex in individuals over 2 years of age can be the sign of a nervous system problem.
Palmar reflex: this strong grasping reflex is often seen in newborn photos. However, by about 6 months of age, it has disappeared. By that point, babies are able to control their hands with a bit more control.
More newborn care resources:
Tender Beginnings: my book to help moms through the first 6 months of motherhood
Support, encouragement, child development milestones and inspirational stories for moms (makes a great gift!). Print or digital versions available
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