Baby breastfeeding from mother, intimate moment.

Spotlight Root and Suck Reflexes

These two reflexes, Root and Suck, are fully present at birth and essential for an infant’s survival. During the first month of life, the baby’s ability to explore the world is closely linked to grasping and oral reflexes. Together, the Root and Suck reflexes serve as a means of soothing through bonding and nourishment.
Crying newborn held by an adult's hand.

Spotlight on MORO

Moro, the startle reflex, is the more well-known of the defensive reflexes. Comprised of two integral parts, known often as ‘fling’ followed by ‘cling’, this reflex forms the foundation for our ability to mobilize to protect us from danger.
Fetus developing in a womb illustration.

Spotlight on Fear Paralysis

Known as the withdrawal reflex, Fear Paralysis is responsible for the body’s ability to immobilize, or freeze, for self-protection when one’s nervous system is threatened. Notably, the action of being immobile is just as critical to development as the early stages of mobilization in the body.