Which newborn reflex helps with feeding by turning the head toward a nipple?

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Multiple Choice

Which newborn reflex helps with feeding by turning the head toward a nipple?

Explanation:
Turning the head toward a nipple when the cheek or mouth is stroked is the rooting reflex. This instinct helps the newborn locate the nipple and latch on for feeding, guiding the mouth toward the stimulus and opening wide in response. It’s strongest right after birth and typically fades by around 3–4 months as babies gain more voluntary control over feeding. The other reflexes are related to different behaviors: sucking is the rhythmic action that draws milk once the nipple is in the mouth, Moro is a startle response, and the palmar reflex involves grasping with the fingers.

Turning the head toward a nipple when the cheek or mouth is stroked is the rooting reflex. This instinct helps the newborn locate the nipple and latch on for feeding, guiding the mouth toward the stimulus and opening wide in response. It’s strongest right after birth and typically fades by around 3–4 months as babies gain more voluntary control over feeding. The other reflexes are related to different behaviors: sucking is the rhythmic action that draws milk once the nipple is in the mouth, Moro is a startle response, and the palmar reflex involves grasping with the fingers.

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