Neonatal Reflexes
Neonatal reflexes are automatic responses that newborns exhibit in reaction to specific stimuli. These reflexes are crucial for survival and development, helping infants interact with their environment. Common examples include the Moro reflex, where a baby flings their arms out and then retracts them in response to a sudden movement or noise, and the rooting reflex, which helps infants find the breast or bottle for feeding.
These reflexes typically emerge during the first few weeks of life and gradually diminish as the child grows. They are essential indicators of neurological development and can help healthcare providers assess the health of a newborn. Other reflexes include the grasp reflex and the stepping reflex, each serving important roles in early motor skills.