Each child is different in his or her own little way, but there are a few reflexes that every infant has. All the reflexes are usually tested during a baby's first visit to the pediatrician, but many don't require a doctor to point out and can be seen from the very first time you meet your bundle of joy. Here are seven newborn reflexes found naturally in all children.
Babies are amazing. From the moment they are born, they can feed, grasp, and position themselves for movement. These newborn reflexes may be involuntary, but they are essential to protect them from danger. See just how familiar you are with your wee one's natural reflexes by taking this quiz.
One of the first responses a new mama witnesses from her newborn baby is his ability to grip her finger. The Palmar grasp, or Darwinian reflex, forces a baby's fingers to curl around and cling to an object when their palm is touched. Moms love to marvel at the strength of the grip, and rightfully so. The Palmar grasp is so strong in the first six months of life that a lil one can support their entire weight in it.
But like a magician who has seen his trick replicated in every possible forum, mum can grow tired of her tot grabbing hold of objects that don't belong in his hands. When your wee one has an Herculean grasp on your hair, necklace, or sweater, simply place your thumb on the outer side of his wrist and your index finger on the inner side. Gently push back and his grasp will quickly loosen enough to remove the object!
My body changed when I entered motherhood and I'm not talking back flab or droopy boobs. Those were sort of expected, it was the mom arm that flew across the front seat passenger in my car when I slammed on my brakes that surprised me.
To see other reflexes that came with being a mother, read more
