Newborns may seem tiny and fragile, but they come into the world with a set of built-in reflexes that help them survive and adapt to their new environment. Some of these reflexes disappear within the first few months, while others lay the foundation for future movement and motor skills.
Understanding these reflexes can help you feel more confident about your baby’s development and recognize what’s normal.
What Are Newborn Reflexes?
Newborn reflexes are automatic movements that occur in response to touch, sound, or movement. They are signs of a healthy nervous system and help babies:
✔️ Eat and survive (rooting & sucking reflex)
✔️ Protect themselves (startle reflex)
✔️ Prepare for future milestones (stepping & grasp reflexes)
📌 Pro Tip: Reflexes should be symmetrical—if one side of the body seems weaker, mention it to your pediatrician.
💡 Related Post: Newborn Bonding: How to Build a Strong Connection with Your Baby
Common Newborn Reflexes & What They Mean
1. Rooting Reflex (Birth to ~4 Months)
👶 When you stroke your baby’s cheek, they turn toward the touch and open their mouth—preparing to latch and feed.
💡 Related Post: Newborn Feeding: How Often & How Much Should Your Baby Eat?
2. Sucking Reflex (Birth to ~4 Months)
🍼 Babies automatically start sucking when something touches the roof of their mouth—helping with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
📌 Pro Tip: Some babies have a weaker suck reflex, which may affect feeding. If you’re struggling, Birthify’s newborn specialists can help!
3. Moro (Startle) Reflex (Birth to ~5 Months)
😲 If a baby feels like they’re falling, they suddenly fling out their arms and legs before pulling them back in. This reflex is why newborns often wake themselves up!
📌 How to Help:
✔️ Use swaddling to prevent sudden wake-ups
✔️ Try gentle movements when laying baby down
💡 Related Post: Newborn Sleep 101: What to Expect & How to Get More Rest
4. Grasp Reflex (Birth to ~6 Months)
🤲 Babies automatically grip anything placed in their hands. This is an early step in hand coordination!
📌 Try This: Place your finger in your baby’s hand and watch them hold on tight.
5. Stepping Reflex (Birth to ~2 Months)
👣 If you hold your baby upright with feet touching a surface, they’ll make stepping motions. This doesn’t mean they’re ready to walk—it’s just a reflex!
6. Tonic Neck (Fencer’s Pose) Reflex (Birth to ~5 Months)
🏹 When baby turns their head to one side, the arm on that side straightens, while the other arm bends. This helps with hand-eye coordination.
When Do Newborn Reflexes Go Away?
Most reflexes disappear within 2-6 months, replaced by intentional movements as babies gain control over their bodies.
📌 If a reflex lasts too long or seems absent, check with your pediatrician.
💡 Related Post: Tummy Time for Newborns: Why It’s Important & How to Do It Right
Birthify’s Expert Support for New Parents
💛 Curious about your baby’s reflexes? Wondering if their movements are normal? Birthify’s expert doulas provide real-time newborn support so you can feel confident in your baby’s development.
👉 Join Birthify today and get expert-led newborn support! Sign up here