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Newborn Reflexes: What They Are and Why They Matter
TinyYears··5 min read
Newborns can't lift their heads, can barely focus their eyes, and have no control over their limbs — and yet they arrive with a remarkable set of automatic, hardwired responses. These reflexes are tested at the newborn physical examination and are important markers of neurological development.
Why reflexes matter
Primitive reflexes are controlled by the brainstem and subcortical regions — the oldest parts of the brain. They exist to help the newborn survive (find the breast, cling to a caregiver) and are a sign that the nervous system has developed normally. When they're absent or asymmetrical, it can indicate neurological problems worth investigating.
Most primitive reflexes disappear within the first few months as the developing cortex begins to take over voluntary movement.
The key newborn reflexes
Rooting reflex
What it is: Stroke or touch the corner of baby's mouth or cheek. They'll turn their head towards the stimulus and open their mouth.
Why it exists: Helps baby find the nipple for feeding.
When it disappears: Around 3–4 months in awake babies (may persist during sleep slightly longer).
Sucking reflex
What it is: Place a clean finger, nipple, or teat in baby's mouth and they suck automatically.
Why it exists: Essential for feeding. Develops in the womb from around 32 weeks of pregnancy — premature babies born before this may have a weak or absent suck reflex.
When it disappears: Becomes voluntary rather than reflexive by around 3–4 months.
Moro reflex (startle reflex)
What it is: When baby experiences a sudden stimulus — a loud noise, feeling of falling, sudden movement — they throw their arms wide, extend fingers, then bring arms together as if grasping. Often accompanied by a cry.
Why it exists: Thought to be a vestigial grasping reflex — when baby slips, the arms fling out to catch something.
Why parents notice it: It triggers when baby is put down and their head drops slightly, which is why putting a sleeping baby down often wakes them. Swaddling dampens the Moro reflex, which is why swaddled babies sleep longer.
When it disappears: 3–6 months. If it persists beyond 6 months, it's worth mentioning to your GP.
Grasp reflex (palmar grasp)
What it is: Place your finger in baby's palm. They grip it with surprising strength.
Why it exists: Another evolutionary holdover — primate infants cling to their mothers.
When it disappears: Around 3–6 months, as voluntary reaching and grasping develops.
Fun fact: The plantar grasp reflex (curling toes when you stroke the sole of the foot) is related and disappears when baby begins to stand and walk.
Babinski reflex (plantar response)
What it is: Stroke the sole of the foot from heel to toe. In babies, the big toe extends upward and the other toes fan out. (In adults, the toes curl inward — an upward response is a sign of neurological damage in adults.)
Why it exists: Related to the immaturity of the motor cortex pathways.
When it disappears: Usually by 12–24 months, when myelination of the corticospinal tract is complete.
Stepping reflex
What it is: Hold baby upright with feet just touching a firm surface. They make stepping movements, as if walking.
Why it exists: Unknown — it doesn't persist or directly lead to walking.
When it disappears: Around 2 months.
Important note: This is NOT walking, and using it to bear weight is not recommended for young babies.
Tonic neck reflex (fencing reflex)
What it is: When baby's head is turned to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend while the opposite arm and leg flex — resembling a fencing stance.
Why it exists: Thought to help develop hand-eye coordination — baby can see the hand on the same side the face is turned towards.
When it disappears: Around 4–6 months. Persistence beyond 6 months needs investigation.
Swimming reflex
What it is: Place baby face-down in water (or supported flat near water) — they make swimming movements and hold their breath.
When it disappears: Around 6 months. This is why baby swimming classes work well with very young infants — don't try this at home, however, without proper supervision.
Asymmetric reflexes: why they matter
All reflexes should be symmetrical — present and equal on both sides. An asymmetric Moro reflex (one arm doesn't extend) or asymmetric grasp can indicate nerve injury (such as a brachial plexus injury from birth) or other neurological issues. These are tested at the newborn physical examination.
When reflexes don't disappear
Primitive reflexes that persist beyond their expected age can interfere with voluntary movement, coordination, and learning. Some occupational therapists and developmental specialists work with children who have retained primitive reflexes — though this is more relevant beyond the first year. During the first year, simply note if reflexes seem to still be very pronounced well past their expected disappearance age and raise it with your health visitor.
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