The Basics: Newborn Reflexes and Movements

Newborns make many strange movements and show unexpected behaviors during the first year of life. They can startle, suck on their hands, strike a fencing pose, pause their breathing, and even roll their eyes, and much of it is completely normal. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains some of the most common newborn reflexes and behaviors. Learn which movements are simply part of your baby’s developing nervous system and which signs could signal a medical problem that needs immediate attention.