Stepping Reflex in Babies – Everything You Need to Know

When you hold up your tiny baby in an upright position, you can see their legs moving. It looks like they are trying to walk. Though your baby is not trying or going to walk just yet, the way their legs move mimics how we walk.

This instantaneous reaction to holding the baby upright is called a stepping reflex. Your baby just does it without being prompted or any help. It is a reflex they are born with.

Why Do Babies Have Stepping Reflex?

All babies are born with reflexes. Some babies can exhibit stronger reflexes than others. These reflexes are a measuring scale for a pediatrician to track a baby’s development.

When your baby tries to take tiny steps, in utero or after birth, it is a reflex. It shows the muscles are aware of their purpose or movement. Though your baby might try or show these reflexes, every time you hold them upright, it does not mean your baby is going to start walking just yet.

It is just nature’s way of preparing them to use their limbs in the future, once they are stronger.

Why is Stepping Reflex in Babies Important?

Stepping reflex is nature’s way of preparing your baby to start using their legs after they get bigger and stronger. All these neonatal reflexes are important for a baby’s survival, and you don’t have to “teach” them.

The stepping reflex is just like the rooting reflex or sucking reflex, where the baby responds to stimuli without teaching or prompting. If the reflex is present, it shows the baby is developing as per expectations.

How Long Does Stepping Reflex Last in Babies?

The stepping reflex is present even before birth and can last up to 2 months after birth. Some believe the reflex is still there but just submerged under all other developments. Your baby will be gaining weight, fat, and getting bigger. The legs won’t be strong enough to take this weight.

After the 2 months mark, you may not see the stepping reflex, but your baby will start moving their legs in a walking pattern when you lay them on their back. This is nature’s way of strengthening the legs and getting the rhythm for walking later.

What Does an Absent Stepping Reflex Mean?

If a baby does not show the stepping reflex, it could be because:

• The baby is not strong enough.
• The reflex is weak.
• Baby’s reflex went away prematurely.
• The reflex was never there.

Now, if the reflex was never there or if the baby is weak, it gives your doctor an indication that your baby needs to be observed closely. It could indicate a late development or an injury to the motor nerves.

It is just a possibility and not a definite problem with the baby. So, if you notice the reflex is absent, let your doctor know and they will check it thoroughly.

A stepping reflex in babies is something they are born with. It can show up right after birth or after a few weeks. There is nothing to worry about unless this reflex is completely absent in your baby. This is just one of the few stepping stones for a baby’s development.

[Read : Development Of Grasping In Babies]

FAQ’s

1. What is the Trigger For a Stepping Reflex?

A baby will take steps the instant their feet come in contact with a hard surface. It could be the mother’s tummy or even a caregiver’s chest when they try to hold the baby very close with their feet resting on the adult’s chest.

2. Do All Babies Have a Stepping Reflex?

Yes, all babies are born with it. If your baby does not show this reflex, it could be a late development or an absent reflex. A doctor will be able to guide you better on this.

3. Should I be Worried if My Baby Does Not Show a Stepping Reflex?

You need to let your paediatrician know immediately. Since this reflex goes away by month two, it is important to check it before that. A doctor will check the stepping reflex and various other parameters to determine if there is indeed something to worry about.

Read Also: Babinski Reflex in Babies – Signs, Causes, And When to Test