How to Identify Your Baby's Reflexes
When your baby is born, she is born with automatic reflexes. Doctors look at these reflexes as a normal part of fetal development. When a baby lacks a reflex, the doctor may want to do additional testing to make sure that everything is normal. It is a good idea as a parent to know the reflexes, so that you know what your baby is doing and why.
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Instructions
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Look for the Startle or (Moro reflex). This reflex is apparent when a baby is startled by a very loud or sudden noise. The baby will often extend his arms and legs, arch his back and possibly clench his fist. These actions mimic a scared or startled newborn. It is common for a baby to cry within a few seconds after being suddenly startled.
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Look for the Plantar (or Babinski reflex). When the sole of your baby's foot is stroked from her heel to her toe, or vice versa, her toes will flare or fan out and her foot will turn in.
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Look for the Palmer reflex (or Monkey Toe Syndrome). When you press your thumb into the middle of your baby's foot, his toes will curl around your thumb. You can also check this reflex by touching the palm of your baby's hand. When done, his fingers will generally curl around your finger.
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Look for the Stepping Reflex. If you hold your baby upright on a bed or table, she'll lift one leg and then the next, almost as if she's trying to walk. Not every baby does this particular reflex, so it should not be concerning if she doesn't participate.
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Look for the Tonic Neck (or Fencing) reflex. If you lie your baby down, chances are he will turn his head to one side with his arms and legs on that side extended. The limbs on the opposite side will generally remain flexed.
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Look for the Rooting reflex. If you gently stroke the side of your baby's cheek, she will turn her head to that side and open her mouth.
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Look for the Sucking reflex. Your baby will automatically suck if the roof of his mouth is touched. This could be with your nipple, a pacifier, your finger or a bottle nipple.
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Tips & Warnings
Your baby's pediatrician will examine her shortly after birth and check all of these reflexes. There is no need for you to continue observing these; however, it is good to learn them so you know how your baby is responding.
