My 4 month old screams and throws out his arms

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My 4 month old screams and throws out his arms

by Tricia
(IL)

LUVS!!

My 4 month old will be laying on the bed and suddenly throw out his arms like something has frightened him or he's fallen and start screaming hysterically?? I'm not sure why.

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My 4 month old screams and throws out his arms

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Mar 05, 2009

4 month - startle reflex
by: Baby Help Line - Annie

Hi Trica,

What beautiful children, and such a lovely photo.

Newborn babies have a startle reflex called the Moro reflex. Because they have not yet got voluntary control over their little bodies, they can startle themselves by a jerk or sudden movement or a loud noise. Some babies, have the reflex movement, but don't seem to be concerned, others think the world is ending!

Babies startle with a sudden noise, or unexpected movement or sometimes even being touched when asleep. As they get more control over their bodies, around 5 - 6 months, the reflex disappears. Babies are usually tested for the Moro reflex after birth, as it is a really good indication of normal motor development.

This fear reflex is the only unlearned fear, all others we learn as we develop and experience the world.

Your little boy should grow out of it in the next couple of months, so I wouldn't be concerned, just comfort him when it happens.

Enjoy your lovely family,
Annie Desantis

Jun 27, 2009

4 month old does the same
by: Anonymous

My daughter is 4 months old and does the same thing. I have asked the doctor and they tell me not to worry, but as a mom you can't help but worry. She only does it when laying on her back or sometimes when you are changing her diaper. As soon as you pick her up she is fine. I just think it's weird. How did your baby do? Did he grow out of it?

Jul 11, 2010

swaddle your baby
by: Anonymous

Hi

It might be an idea to swaddle your baby so that when she tries to move she meets resistance. This way she still thinks she's in the safety of the womb and stays calm. You will probably find that she will sleep much better. Just make sure that you don't wrap her legs up. When you swaddle her just concentrate on keeping her arms by her sides.

I swaddled my own daughter for the first three months she didn't seem keen at first but she remained calm when she had a sudden movement and slept really well.

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