2-Reflexes to Sound and First Finger Sucking | From 0 Months

Even though they can't speak yet—

Growth signs at 0 months understood through "blinking at sounds" and "finger sucking starting by chance"

1 | "Blink" reflex - Blinking in response to sound

When?
Often seen from 0 to 1 week after birth (*earlier than visual responses)
Mechanism
Sudden sound travels from inner ear to brain, triggering a reflex command to the eyelids
(Acoustic blink reflex)
Why is it important?
1. Proof that the auditory pathway is functioning
2. The beginning of learning "to protect the eyes from danger" through defensive reflexes

How to check the reaction

• It is enough to lightly rub a tissue about 15cm behind the baby's head to make a "crinkle" sound.

• Once you confirm a blink or a slight body twitch, immediately speak to them in a calm voice from the side of their face, saying "That was a surprise, wasn't it?".

• Please be careful, as sounds that are too loud will cause a spike in stress hormones.

2 | "Chance" is the starting switch - Sucking when a finger touches the mouth

When does it start?
2 to 4 weeks after birth.
Starts when a "finger from a tightly clenched hand" accidentally touches the cheek or lips
Mechanism
Tactile sensation around the mouth → Sucking reflex → Strengthening of tongue and hand nerve mapping
Why is it important?
1. Self-body map to learn "one's own body" through sensation
2. Fingertip stimulation → Increased synapses in the hand area of the cerebrum
3. The sprout of self-comfort to gain peace of mind

Home tips

• Avoid mittens as much as possible, and keep nails clean and short to live with bare hands.

• After they have sucked their fingers to their heart's content, wipe their hands with a warm towel and provide feedback like "That feels good, doesn't it?"

• For babies who cannot get their fingers to their mouth well, try side-lying holding to make it easier for their hands to touch their cheeks.

3 | Key points for involvement that supports growth - Building a foundation for development rather than "prompting"

At this stage (0 months old), rather than "prompting," it is important to "provide safe and comfortable stimulation, notice the reactions that occur naturally, and connect with them."

1. Delivering sensory stimulation in a "comfortable way"

• Hearing: Activate the auditory pathway with gentle talking and whispering songs (mother's voice that is not too monotonous and has intonation).

• Touch: Build a map of tactile sensations through "predictable physical contact," such as holding them or wiping them with a towel after a bath.

• Smell: Mother's scent (the fragrance around the nipples and chest) is the foundation of security.

2. Parents connecting "accidental" successful experiences with words and facial expressions

• Foster the feeling of "being noticed" with immediate verbal responses such as "You blinked," "I noticed you," or "Your finger came up."

• This feedback is the "foundation of security" and becomes the power that boosts development.

3. The balance between "moderate stimulation" and a "safe environment"

• Natural light that is not too bright, a calm voice, and not using excessive toys (it is okay not to have any at this stage).

• Engage in interaction at a "distance where eyes meet and voices reach" in short, frequent bursts.

• By sharing observation points, parents can have a sense of raising their child while "understanding" rather than "worrying."

4 | Summary

• Blink reflex is the start sign for hearing and the brainstem

• Accidental finger sucking is the first experience connecting the mouth, hands, and brain

• While sharing both "small successful experiences" as parent and child,let's connect the next developmental steps, from checking for a preferred head position to visual tracking, neck control, and spontaneous thumb sucking!

Next Article to Read ▶︎ Introduction to "Tummy Time Training" for Newborn Neck Control

◀︎Previous Article