Rooting Reflex

Emerges: 24-28 weeks in utero

Birth: Fully present

 

Inhibited 3-4 months post-natal

  • Life preserving
  • Part of the grasp reflexes
  • Direct link to feeding
  • Connected to the sucking reflex
  • Fine motor coordination, speech, and communication

Retained Rooting Reflex 

  • Increased sensitivity around the mouth
  • Imbalances in motor muscles of the mouth for speech
  • Child continues to move his mouth when anything is in their hands
  • The tongue may remain too far forward

 

 Integrating this reflex will

  • Improved control of the mouth for swallowing
  • Improved speech
  • Improved manual skillfulness
  • Improved respiration and oral function
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