Newborn reflexes are becoming a thing of the past – roll on controlled movements

As newborn reflexes start to disappear, you'll notice your baby moving their hands more deliberately. Why is this important and what does it mean?

When your baby was born, some of their first movements happened involuntarily, triggered by newborn (primitive) reflexes.^[1] The lovely feeling of your baby closing their fingers tightly around yours is priceless.

Movements becoming more controlled

These newborn reflexes are gradually being replaced by movements that are more controlled. Your baby will begin to use their thumb to help grasp and keep hold of objects, indicating that they are beginning to understand how to adjust their hands and use them more purposefully. 

It might be an idea to double check that your baby can only reach for and grab items that are safe. They are about to discover that life is full of exciting finds and most of them will end up in their mouth!

The importance of strong thumbs

Your baby will start to use their fingers to hold objects in their grasp and then use their thumb to press the object securely into their palm.^[2] A key part of your baby picking up objects successfully is having a strong thumb. This will be essential for lots of tasks, such as picking up food, holding utensils, pulling up socks, fastening a zip and using scissors. Strength should develop naturally through everyday life, exploration and play.

Now your baby is increasingly able to control their hands, fingers and thumbs, you'll get to enjoy more heart-melting moments as they continue to reach out for you.

References: 

[1] V.G. Payne, L.D. Isaacs. (2012). Human Motor Development. A Lifespan Approach. McGraw Hill.

[2] S.J. Edwards, D.B. Gallen, J.D. McCoy-Powlen, M.A. Suárez. (2018). Hand Grasps and Manipulation Skills. Slack Incorporated.