Newborn Reflexes

Reflexes are present to infants in a specified time. Mothers should understand that reflexes are normal upon birth but some reflexes are disappear in time.
Reflexes are involuntary movements or actions. Some movements are spontaneous, occurring as part of the baby’s usual activity. Others are responses to certain actions. The movement is guided by a series of "reflexes" or automatic nervous system reactions that are the sole property of new babies.Reflexes help identify normal brain and nerve activity. Some reflexes occur only in specific periods of development.

1. Rooting Reflex - is the action your baby makes, when searching for your breast. You will notice how he turns his head in the direction of your finger, if your gently stroke the side of his cheek.
   Duration: Usually three to four months.
2. Grasp Reflex - is confirmed by your baby clenching his fist when pressure is applied to the palm of his hand.
   Duration: Three to four months.
3. Walking Reflex - is demonstrated when your newborn is held upright underneath his arms, with his feet resting on a hard surface. His legs will instantaneously start a stepping action, this however doesn’t go to prove that he is ready for walking or standing.
   
   Duration: Variable, but usually about two months.
4. Babinski Reflex - is when the foot turns in with the toes flaring upwards, when the sole of the foot is gently stroked.
   
   Duration: Usually between six months and two years.
5. Moror Reflex - is used as an analysis of your baby’s general condition and central nervous system. His head is then tilted back a little, which causes him to immediately extend his legs and arms with his fingers widespread. The same will occur if your baby is suddenly startled by loud noise or sudden vigorous movement, which is commonly known as the ‘startle’ reflex
   
   Duration: Four to six months.
6. Tonic neck Reflex - This is also called the fencing reflex, because of the position the baby assumes. When you lay your baby on her back and her head turns to one side she will extend her arm and leg on that side while the opposite arm and leg bend, assuming a “fencing” position. This reflex is present only until about the 4th month.
7. Crawling Reflex - Newborn placed on abdomen; Baby flexes legs under him and starts to crawl
8. Swimmer's (Gallant) Response - A.Hold baby prone while supporting belly with hand. Stroke along one side of babies' spine. Baby flexes whole body toward the stroked side.
9. Step reflex - This reflex is also called the walking or dance reflex because a baby appears to take steps or dance when held upright with his/her feet touching a solid surface.