What is a neonatal reflex that persists throughout life?

The parachute reflex is a unique neonatal reflex that begins to appear around 4-6 months of age and continues throughout life. This reflex is characterized by the infant's instinctive reaction to extend their arms when they feel themselves falling, serving as a protective mechanism to prevent injury. Unlike other reflexes that typically diminish as a child grows, the parachute reflex remains active into adulthood, demonstrating the body's innate response to danger and the importance of maintaining balance and coordination.

The startle reflex, palmar reflex, and rooting reflex are all important neonatal reflexes that provide insight into an infant's neurological development. However, these reflexes tend to fade as the child matures. The startle reflex, or Moro reflex, usually disappears by around 4-6 months, the palmar reflex fades by 5-6 months, and the rooting reflex is generally absent around 4 months. Understanding these differences helps in assessing normal developmental milestones in infants and children.