The joy a mother or father feels when looking at a newborn baby is indescribable, isn't it? The way the little limbs move, the way they smile... Have you ever seen that when you put your finger near the baby's cheek or lips, the baby turns its head in that direction and opens its mouth? As if searching for milk. Many new parents are surprised to see this. This is actually a very wonderful ability that babies are born with. We are talking about this today.
What is this Rooting Reflex?
Simply put, this is a reflex that helps babies survive, and is innate . That is, it is not something the baby does consciously. As soon as something touches the skin on the cheek or side of the mouth, the baby automatically turns his head in that direction, opens his mouth, and starts looking for a nipple. This is what we call the `(Rooting Reflex)`.
This is like a signal that the baby is hungry. It is because of this ability that the baby can easily find the mother's nipple or the nipple of the bottle and drink milk.
Rooting and Sucking: Like Two Brothers
In addition to this `(Rooting Reflex)`, there is another important thing. That is the sucking reflex , that is, `(Sucking Reflex).` These two work together. After the baby `roots`, that is, turns his head and finds the nipple or the nipple of the bottle, and as soon as it touches the roof of the baby's mouth, the baby automatically starts sucking.
This is one of nature's most wonderful creations. A baby understands from birth that when its head is turned to the side, it will get food (milk) and it needs to be sucked. This is essential for the baby's survival.
At first, this may be something that happens automatically, but after a while, the baby learns these things. He builds a connection between what he does and the result he gets. Then, instead of just a `reflex`, it becomes a conscious action that the baby does .
How long has this reflex been around?
Usually, this `(Rooting reflex )` can be seen in a baby until he is about four months old . After that, it gradually disappears. But don't worry, this disappearance is a very good sign of the baby's development.
The reason for this is that by about four months, the baby has become very good at sucking. He knows that he doesn't have to turn his head to find the nipple and that he will get milk when he needs it. Instead, when the baby is hungry, he tells us in other ways, perhaps by crying or flapping his arms. He doesn't always seek milk in response to a hand on the cheek. If his stomach is full, he may even turn his head away when you try to feed him.
Four months is a special milestone.
The first four months of a baby's life are a very important developmental milestone. During this time, the baby moves from being a "newborn" to a "toddler." The baby's brain is developing rapidly, and they are beginning to sense and understand their surroundings. Their sleep patterns are changing, and they are learning new things. With these changes, these reflexes that were present at birth are gradually disappearing.
What other wonderful reflexes do babies have?
In addition to the `rooting reflex`, there are several other amazing reflexes that babies are born with. Let's take a look at them in this table.
| The name of the reflex | What happens to it? | How long has it been? |
|---|---|---|
| Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex) (The baby is shaking) | A baby may startle at a sudden sound or movement. He or she may throw their head back and spread their arms and legs out to the sides. Then they may curl back up and cry. | About the first 2 months. |
| Tonic Neck Reflex (Sword fighting stance) | When the baby turns its head to one side, it straightens the arm and leg on that side. The arm on the other side bends at the elbow. As if preparing for a sword fight. | Until about 5-7 months. |
| Grasp Reflex (to catch) | If you put your finger on a baby's hand, he will grab it tightly. This may seem like a very affectionate thing to do, but it is also something that happens naturally. If you put your finger on the sole of his foot, he will try to grab it with his fingers. | The one on the hand is 5-7 months, the one on the leg is 9-12 months. |
| Stepping Reflex (The one with the feet) | Hold the baby under the armpits and let the legs touch a surface, and put one leg forward as if the baby is walking. But the baby cannot bear weight, and the head needs to be well supported. | About 2 months. |
Should I see a doctor?
These two reflexes, ``Rooting`` and ``Sucking``, are essential for the baby to suckle well and get the necessary nutrition. All of this is a normal, natural part of baby development.
But, if you have a slight doubt or fear, for example:
- If the baby doesn't seem to be drinking enough milk
- If you think your baby is not gaining weight properly
- If this `Rooting` or `Sucking` feels too weak,
Talk to your doctor about this without delay. It is very important to make sure that the baby is getting the right nutrition. Therefore, the best thing to do is to consult a doctor without holding any doubts in your mind.
Take-Home Message
- The rooting reflex is a natural reflex that helps babies suckle when their cheeks are touched.
- This ability usually disappears around 4 months of age, and it is a good sign of the baby's brain development.
- Along with the rooting reflex, other wonderful reflexes such as Moro, Grasp, and Stepping are present in babies at birth.
- If you have any concerns or doubts about your baby's milk intake, weight gain, or these reflexes, contact your doctor immediately for advice.
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