What occurs during the rooting reflex in infants?

During the rooting reflex in infants, the correct response involves the infant turning towards a light touch on the lips. This reflex is an essential part of a newborn's ability to feed, as it helps the baby locate the breast or bottle. When the lips or cheeks are touched, the infant instinctively turns its head toward the stimulus and opens its mouth. This action is crucial for breastfeeding, as it ensures that the baby can latch onto the nipple effectively.

The rooting reflex usually diminishes around 4 months of age as the infant develops more controlled and voluntary movements. Understanding this reflex is vital for caregivers, as it indicates the baby's natural instinct to seek nourishment and can help in assessing the infant's neurological development.