Your baby’s newborn reflexes – called developmental reflexes or primitive reflexes – are survival instincts triggered by their central nervous system. A reflex can be a spontaneous movement, but it is usually a response to something, such as a sudden sound or movement, or the feeling of something in the hand or cheek.

You don’t need to do anything to encourage these movements, but tell your baby’s doctor if your baby doesn’t seem to have one of these reflexes, if it’s on one side of the body but not the other (or not equally strong on both sides), or if the reflex does not go away about the time it is expected. These can be signs that something is wrong with the baby’s brain or nervous system.

“Don’t panic if you can’t trigger the newborn reflex at home,” says Liz Donner, MD, a pediatric hospitalist and member of BabyCenter’s medical advisory board. “Even a skilled doctor can have difficulty eliciting every reflex. Just bring it up at your next appointment so your pediatrician can do a thorough exam and ask relevant questions before offering reassurance or deciding to do further testing.”

Most infant reflexes disappear in the first year, but some remain into adulthood. As adults, we still blink, cough, convulse, sneeze, and yawn in response to triggers, as we have done since childhood.

Root reflex

What is the cheer reflex?

You may have experienced your baby cheering for his first meal shortly after birth. This reflex helps them find the nipple and start sucking. Touch your nipple (or bottle nipple, or even your finger) to your baby’s cheek, lips, or the side of her mouth and she’ll turn toward you, mouth open, in anticipation of a feed. They might even start sucking.

When a baby coos, it’s not just cute – it’s also a good sign that they’re hungry. (For more clues, watch our video on 8 Signs Your Baby is Hungry.)

“My 3-week-old is eating, but sometimes when I put her over my shoulder to burp her, she’ll squeal like crazy and try to suck on my cheek,” she says. BabyCenter Community member marieannaaa. “She gets mad that she can’t, but calms down when I give her a pacifier.”

How long does it take?

Babies are born with a rooting reflex and it lasts until about 4 months of age.

Moro or startle reflex

What is the Moro reflex?

A loud noise or sudden movement may cause your baby to arch his back, stretch out his legs and arms, perhaps cry, and then pull his arms and legs back in. This can also happen if the baby’s head moves quickly or if the head falls back (or even if you lay them down a little too quickly). It’s called the Moro or startle reflex, and it’s an involuntary attempt to protect themselves.

Even their own cry or sudden movement can startle the baby enough to trigger the Moro reflex. This reflex can interrupt their sleep – but there are ways to prevent this and prevent your baby from startling.

How long does it take?

The Moro reflex develops when your baby is still in the womb, at 32 weeks. It peaks during the first month after birth and usually subsides around 2 months of age. Sometimes the astonishment can last three or four months. Some babies continue to startle for longer, but if your baby still has the startle reflex after 6 months, talk to your baby’s doctor.

Grandmother’s reflex

What is the Babinski reflex?

Stroke the bottom of your baby’s foot and she will extend her big toe back towards the top of her foot and spread the other toes. This is called the plantar reflex or the Babinski reflex, named after the French neurologist Joseph Babinski, who first described the reflex at the end of the nineteenth century.

How long does it take?

This reflex lasts between 12 months and 2 years. Babinski reflex in a child older than 2 years (or in an adult) can be a sign of a central nervous system disorder, such as meningitis, stroke or neurodegenerative disease.

Tonic neck reflex

What is the tonic neck reflex?

Once your baby is in this position, you’ll see why it’s also called the “fencing reflex.” (Experts call this the asymmetric tonic cervical reflex.) When your baby is lying on his back, if you turn his head to one side, the arm on that side will extend while the opposite arm bends at the elbow. Turn the baby’s head to the other side, and the arm on that side will reach out as the opposite arm bends.

This movement can sometimes be subtle, and your baby may not do it if they are upset or crying.

How long does it take?

The tonic reflex develops when you are about 35 weeks pregnant and will last until your baby is 5 to 7 months old.

A gallant reflex

What is the gallant reflex?

Caress the baby along the spine while it is on its stomach and it will jerk its hips towards the side you are stimulating.

How long does it take?

Your baby will do this for a month or two after birth.

Sucking reflex

What is the sucking reflex?

Touch the roof of your baby’s mouth and she’ll start sucking—breast, finger, pacifier, whatever’s inside. The hand-to-mouth reflex complements the sucking reflex – it’s how a baby can start sucking their thumb or fingers.

How long does it take?

You may have seen ultrasound photos of babies sucking their fists. This survival reflex begins to develop around 21 to 24 weeks of pregnancy, but is not fully developed until around 36 weeks. (This is why some premature babies may not have a strong sucking reflex.)

“My daughter is almost 5 months old and she still tries to suck everything like it’s supposed to be a pacifier,” he says BabyCenter Community member Flamingo33. “If someone holds her even close to a nursing position, she immediately turns to try to nurse. She also roots during tummy time. I think she’ll outgrow that, but right now everything still has the potential to be food for them.”

It takes some coordination to breathe, suck, and swallow, so some babies take a while to learn to eat effectively.

Step reflex

What is the step reflex?

This startling reflex is also called the walking or dancing reflex. Hold your baby upright with his feet in contact with a flat surface and he will appear to take steps, slowly extending and bending one leg after the other. Your baby can’t support its own weight, of course, but it looks like it’s walking or dancing!

How long does it take?

This reflex will disappear in about 2 months. When your baby learns to walk—usually between 9 and 15 months, although some babies don’t walk until 18 months—the movement will be voluntary and no longer a reflex. This will include strength, balance and a good dose of confidence.

Palmar grasping reflex

What is the palmar grasp reflex?

Your baby won’t be able to grab things on purpose until he’s about 6 months old. Meanwhile, they have the grasping reflex that appears in so many cute baby photos.

Place your finger in your baby’s palm and she will curl her little fingers around it. Your baby may even tighten their grip if you try to remove the finger. It’s instinctive for now, and it feels strong, but don’t depend on it. Your baby may let go suddenly.

How long does it take?

The palmar reflex is established by the 32nd week of pregnancy. It lasts until your baby is around 5 to 6 months old.

This documentary shows how a startling scientific discovery descended into a frenzy of academic, governmental and judicial controversy. While the story of “Sue” — the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever found — is ultimately a happy one in that it is available for public viewing at the Field Museum in Chicago, the road to get there has been filled with years of legal complications, prison sentences, controversial The FBI raid and the wounded pride of a South Dakotan who hopes Sue will stay in the state where she was first found. What emerges is that Sue’s discovery ends up being much more than a real discovery, raising so many less interesting questions of property rights and private enterprise in work that is typically the exclusive domain of academia.

For children, the first third Dinosaur 13with its story of finding Sue on that brutally hot August afternoon in the Badlands of South Dakota and the obvious joy and passion these paleontologists felt when they realized their discovery, it is utterly captivating, especially for paleontologists starting out in the family. However, as the film delves into the federal government and all the court cases that have followed, it’s easy to imagine kids’ interest waning. Not that the story isn’t interesting, harrowing, and tragic, because it is, but the difference between discovering and discussing the gray areas in American property law regarding public and Indian lands is the difference between seeing Sue reassembled and towering over museum visitors and seeing parts of Sue kept in boxes confiscated and kept by the government.

As the colder season approaches, it’s never too early to start preparing your home for winter. While there are several important indoor prep tasks to check out, there is also a cover for outdoor items to prepare for frost and snow.

One of the biggest concerns for the winter season is outdoor furniture and patio items. After all, moisture build-up is notorious for damaging materials and creating mold and mildew.

But you may not need to cover up as much as you think. As it turns out, there are a few things you can leave outside during the winter season without a cover (although covers are never a bad idea). Here’s an expert look at outdoor items you can leave uncovered for the winter season.

Teak furniture

Teak furniture is timeless, sophisticated and fully reflects the outdoor environment. But if you’ve ever bought yourself a teak outdoor furniture set, then you know how expensive they can be, which means you’ll want to keep it clean and protect it from any harsh conditions.

Good news – our experts say this material is perfectly safe to withstand the winter months outdoors.

“Teak is a dense hardwood with natural oils that make it highly resistant to moisture and extreme temperatures,” says Colleen Bennett, founder and interior designer at CBB Design Firm. “Over time, teak develops a beautiful silver patina that adds to its rustic charm. It can handle winter weather well, especially if it is cleaned and sealed annually for added protection.”

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decorating ideas, design tips and more!

Metal tables and chairs

Part of being able to keep your outdoor items uncovered in the winter is investing in pieces made to withstand the elements. Metal tables and chairs, and even metal items for the yard are definitely on the list, according to our experts.

“Metal tables and chairs are one of the safest pieces of furniture to leave outdoors during the winter, especially if they’re powder coated for extra durability,” says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors.

She says powder coating is incredibly beneficial for these pieces to maintain their appearance and functionality because the coating prevents moisture from building up and leading to rust.

Concrete or fiberglass

Do you have anything made of concrete or fiberglass around the house? Then there is no need to take extra precautions when the colder weather starts to arrive. According to Jones, these materials do well in all weather conditions, but there is one caveat when it comes to decorating your fiberglass patio.

“Lightweight fiberglass pieces tend to blow around in high winds, so consider securing them with sandbags,” she says.

Anything made of aluminum

Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor furniture or patio decorations for several reasons. Not only can these sets be cost-effective, but they’re easy to maintain and move around if you ever get the itch to redecorate. But even better, this material is perfect for keeping up with winter weather conditions.

“Aluminum is rust-resistant and very durable in both cold and wet conditions,” says Bennett. “Its lightweight nature makes it easy to move as needed and won’t corrode or degrade in snow or rain. Powder-coated aluminum adds an extra layer of protection, making it even more weatherproof.”

All-Weather Wicker

Like teak, wicker is another stunning material for outdoor patios. But the key to keeping your knitwear outdoors in winter without any covers is an all-weather option.

“Made from high-density polyethylene, the first is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and resist cracking or fading, making it safe to be outside in the winter with this feature,” says interior designer Victoria Holly.

Stainless steel furniture

If you’re shopping for a stainless steel alternative to aluminum, good news—you’re still buying a material that can withstand winter weather. To choose the best piece for outdoor storage,

“Stainless steel is corrosion resistant and very durable in harsh weather conditions,” says Bennett. “It won’t rust or warp, making it suitable for cold and snowy environments.”

One additional piece of advice he gives: “Opt for higher quality stainless steel for outdoor use, as it offers the best protection against moisture and temperature fluctuations.”

Weather resistant plastic

From toddler dining sets or playhouses to jolly gnomes and more, weather-resistant plastic is another material on our list that can go uncovered. But in terms of furniture, Bennett says the inclusion of HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is what makes your furniture strong enough for this weather.

“This material is easy to maintain and comes in a variety of colors and styles, offering a maintenance-free wood look,” she says. “HDPE furniture is ideal for areas with heavy snow or rain.”

Fire Pits

While it’s safe to say that you won’t be comfortable outside anytime soon, that doesn’t mean you have to jump at the chance. If you have a fire somewhere in your yard, it’s perfectly safe to keep it outdoors for the cold temperatures ahead.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron can add a beautiful contrast to your patio design while remaining pristine throughout the winter season.

“With the right powder coating, wrought iron is a tough and timeless option that can withstand snow and freezing temperatures,” says Holly. “This is the most durable option for keeping outside all winter – but make sure you like the more patinated look.”

Videos and photos

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  Video Games: Movie
  The official trailer
  

age 6+

Based on 2 opinions of parents

March 22, 2022

age 6+

A useful message with fun

We all love video games and this movie shows that fun in an interesting way. I love this movie so much. I love the transitions and animations added to this movie. Being a video editing and animation aspirant, I would love to be able to create these types of effects myself.

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February 3, 2015

age 5+

Theminingblog

I love this and I totally recommend it.” It’s so cool because it’s history, but you can just say hey, I have that video game. Bye

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What is the story?

VIDEO GAMES: THE FILM — director Jeremy Snead’s documentary debut — focuses on the history of video games as an industry and form of popular entertainment. Interviews with game pioneers, game company CEOs, game designers, and well-known game enthusiasts like Wil Wheaton, Zach Braff (one of the film’s producers), and Donald Faison are mixed with various montages of clips from popular games. The documentary talks about some of the failures of the industry (like the legendary scary game ET) and challenges (controversy over video game violence and rating creation), but mostly waxes poetic about the cultural significance of video games.

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Is it good?

Our review:

children say:
Not rated yet

The film may be interesting to some, although its length and one-sidedness make it seem like a long commercial for unlimited video game use. Most die-hard gamers probably already know it all Video Games: Moviebut even those familiar with his names of early game creators may still be enthralled by Snead’s interviews of A-list gaming visionaries like Atari founder Nolan Bushnell, Pong designer Allan Alcorn and British designer Peter Molyneaux. And those who aren’t in the know will learn a thing or two about how video games have become household staples—not just for kids, but for adults who grew up playing them. Some of the many (and seemingly endless) interviews trace the growth of the industry from an innovation and economic standpoint (a few interviews are with corporate types, such as Nintendo COO Reggie Fils-Aime), while others focus solely on the ways in which gaming has influenced pop culture since the early 80s.

Unfortunately, it’s pretty boring to watch a bunch of somewhat famous actors wax poetic about how much Nintendo has changed their lives. Is it really important for a sitcom actor to remember the first time he played a certain game? Snead spends too much time on these slightly insightful musings and too little trying to present a balanced view of the industry. Instead of just showing various game creators and entrepreneurs mocking the media for claiming that video games are violent, the director missed the opportunity to provide the opposite perspective by explaining why games are (or aren’t) different from movies. It’s also a bit pedantic that the interviewees claim that video games are the ultimate art form – as important as or even more important than novels – without addressing the greater use of games by those who don’t consider themselves serious gamers.

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Talk to your kids about…

• Families can talk about it Video Games: Movieuser message about video games. Do you agree that games should be considered movies, allowed to be mature, violent and sexual without (and as much) controversy?

• All those interviewed in the documentary are creators or avid consumers of video games. Do you think the content is balanced in terms of game creation and popularity? Do documentaries have to be objective?

• If video games are like movies, what games are best suited for children? Which ones are clearly intended for adults? Check out our favorite games.

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Did we miss something about diversity?

Research shows a link between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews that will be published on an ongoing basis. You can help us help children
proposing a diversity update.