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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Using senses to encourage head and upper limb voluntary movement in young infants: Implications for early
1a Rehabilitation Department , College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Noura University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia.
Insights
Newborns demonstrate purposeful movements in response to sensory stimuli, challenging the notion of purely reflexive actions. Early active experiences are crucial for infant learning and development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Traditionally, neonate movements were considered reflexive.
- Emerging evidence suggests newborns exhibit purposeful responses to stimuli.
- This challenges established developmental paradigms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on newborn responses to sensory stimuli.
- To analyze active head and upper limb movements in neonates.
- To contextualize findings within early training and brain development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on sensory stimuli and newborn responses.
- Analysis of active movements (head, upper limbs) in neonates.
- Synthesis of findings with existing research on early intervention.
Main Results:
- Sensory stimuli elicit recognition and active movements in newborns.
- Newborns display purposeful head and upper limb responses.
- Early active experiences significantly shape infant learning.
Conclusions:
- Newborns are capable of purposeful movements.
- Early active experiences are fundamental for infant development.
- This research has implications for early intervention and rehabilitation.
Primary Objective:
It has long been suggested that a neonate's movement and responses to external stimuli are the product of reflexive reactions rather than purposeful movements. However, several studies have demonstrated that this is not the case. Rationale of literature included: This study seeks to review reports showing that sensory stimuli resulted in newborns recognising and responding to different stimuli with active head or upper limb movements. We also discuss this in the context of current literature about early training on the advancement of movement and brain development. Results and outcomes: Taken together, it is clear that early active experience shapes learning in newborns.
Conclusions:
The impact of this research is most exciting for applications that would induce infants to make purposeful movements, especially as a means for early intervention and rehabilitation for the treatment of infants with or at high risk for developmental delay.
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