Startle response discovery
This helps stimulate your baby's reflexes. When you gently hit the sides of the mat, it triggers the Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex. - This reflex typically involves the baby arching their back, extending their arms and legs, an
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What you'll need
This helps stimulate your baby's reflexes.
How it works
- 1~30s
Alright, let's get started! To complete this activity, place the baby on his or her back. you, watch your child closely — I'd love to hear what you notice about how they responds.
Watch for: Baby get startled by loud sounds.
- 2~30s
Great, now let's try the next part. When he's relaxed, gently hit the sides of the mat he's laying on, startling him. Tell me what your child does — any reaction counts!
Watch for: Baby show the Moro Reflex by raising their arms and stretching their back and neck when startled.
- 3~30s
One more thing to try. The baby will extend his or her arms out, palms up. This exercise will help you verify that your baby's newborn reflexes are present, indicative of a healthy nervous system. How does your child handle this? What do you see?
Watch for: Baby smile instinctively; this usually happens randomly, especially while sleeping.