Chapter 21 infant reflexes

Rooting reflex

A feeding reflex elicited by touching the baby's cheek, causing the baby's head to turn to the side that was touched. The reflex usually disappears after 4 months

Sucking reflexes

A feeding reflex that occurs when the infants lips are touched. The reflex persisted throughout infancy

Tonic neck reflex or facing reflex

A postural reflex. When a baby who is laying on its back turns its head to the right side, for example, the left side of the body shows a flexing of the left arm and the left leg. This reflex disappears after 4 to 6 months.

Stepping reflex (walking or dancing Reflex)

Can be elicited by holding the baby upright so that the feet touch a flat surface. The legs then move up and down as if the baby were walking. This reflex usually disappears at about 2 months.

Palmer grasp reflex

Occurs when a small object is placed against the palm of the hand, causing the fingers to curl around it. this reflex disappears after 3 to 6 months

Moro reflex

Often assessed to,estimate the maturity of the central nervous system. A loud noise, a sudden change in position, or an abrupt jarring of the crib elicts this reflex. The infant reacts by extending both arms and legs outward with the fingers spread, then suddenly retracting the limbs. Often they infant cries at the same time. The reflex disappears after 4 months

Plantar reflex

Similar to the palmar grasp reflex; an object placed just beneath the toes causes them to curl around it. This reflex disappears after 8 to 10 months

Baby ski reflex

When the foot of the sole is stroked, the big toe rises and the other toes fan out. A newborn baby has a positive babinski reflex. After age 1, the infant exhibits a negative babinski; that is, the toes curl downward. A positive babinski after age 1 can indicate possible upper motor neuron damage.