Newborn Reflexes When this 2-week-old baby (left) is held upright with her feet touching a flat surface, she displays the stepping reflex, moving her legs as if trying to walk. Another reflex that is present at birth is the grasping reflex (right). The infant’s grip is so strong that he can support his own weight. Thought to enhance the newborn’s chances for survival, these reflexive responses drop out during the first few months of life as the baby develops voluntary control over movements.

Michelle Gibson/Getty Images