Grasping reflex. The action of grasping is also known as the 'palmar grasp reflex'. You will notice your baby instantly closing their fingers around your finger (or other objects such as your hair, beard or necklace), often holding tightly and even tugging quite hard - so be warned! The grasping reflex can be very strong, even in premature babies, which have been shown to be able to support their own body weight by 'hanging freely' with just grasping by both hands. The grasp reflex remains present for the first 3 to 4 months of life.
Walking and stepping reflex. When you touch the soles of your baby's feet they will curl their toes. This reflex remains present until the baby starts standing up by themselves. Another reflex located on the sole of the foot is called the 'Babinski reflex'. If you were to gently stroke the sole from heel to toe, your baby would turn up their toes and turn their foot inwards. The Babinski reflex is present for the first 2 years.
Walking and stepping. If you hold your baby upright with your hands underneath their armpits and the baby's feet touching a flat surface, your baby will simulate a 'walking movement' or 'stepping action'. The walking or stepping reflex is present for the first 8 weeks.
Tonic neck or 'fencing' reflex. This reflex can be stimulated by turning your baby's head to one side while they are lying on their back. The baby will respond by straightening the arm and leg on the side the baby faces and bending the arm and leg on the opposite side. It is believed that this reflex helps protect the baby from rolling over.
Traction response. The 'traction response' or 'head lag' is another reflex tested by caregivers soon after birth. The baby is held by both wrists and lifted forward into a sitting position. The baby's head should first 'lag' back, then straighten and fall forward.
Galant reflex.