At what age does the stepping reflex generally fade?

At what age does the stepping reflex generally fade?

• A. 2-3 months
• B. 4-5 months
• C. 6-7 months
• D. 8 months

Answer: (B)

The stepping reflex, also known as the walking or dance reflex, generally fades around the 4 to 5-month mark. This reflex is observed in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a surface; they will exhibit stepping movements. This reflex is an early motor response that indicates the neurological development of the infant. As the infant grows, the increased weight and changes in muscle tone lead to the gradual disappearance of this reflex. By the time they reach 4 to 5 months, infants are more focused on developing other motor skills, such as rolling over, sitting up, and eventually crawling, which takes precedence over the stepping reflex. Understanding the typical timeline of reflexes is crucial in pediatric assessments, as it helps indicate healthy brain and motor development in young children.

The stepping reflex, also known as the walking or dance reflex, generally fades around the 4 to 5-month mark. This reflex is observed in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a surface; they will exhibit stepping movements.

This reflex is an early motor response that indicates the neurological development of the infant. As the infant grows, the increased weight and changes in muscle tone lead to the gradual disappearance of this reflex. By the time they reach 4 to 5 months, infants are more focused on developing other motor skills, such as rolling over, sitting up, and eventually crawling, which takes precedence over the stepping reflex.

Understanding the typical timeline of reflexes is crucial in pediatric assessments, as it helps indicate healthy brain and motor development in young children.