Grasping reflex

This reflex influences the development of the hand’s gross motor skills. It prepares for the differentiation between the right and left sides and the hand-mouth and hand-foot coordination. The centering is formed by coordinating upper and lower body movements. The grasping reflex always works in conjunction with the pull-up reflex, which is later integrated into the grasping reflex.

If the reflex is not fully integrated, the following abnormalities can occur:

• The development of laterality is slowed down.
• Hand-eye coordination remains uncertain.
• Hand-foot coordination also remains uncertain.
• Fine motor problems may occur as a result.
• The gross motor skills of the hands remain undifferentiated.
• A cramped pen posture, strong pressure on the pen when drawing and writing, rapid fatigue when writing lead to unwillingness and refusal.
• Co-movement of the mouth and tongue during writing are observable.
• Slurred articulation is often heard.

Onset: 11th week in utero
Duration: Active from birth to the 1st year of life
Integration: End of the 1st year of life