The parachute reflex is expected to appear by which age range?

The parachute reflex is expected to appear by which age range?

• A. Age 2 to 4 months
• B. Age 4 to 6 months
• C. Age 5 to 7 months
• D. Age 8 to 10 months

Answer: (D)

The parachute reflex is a protective postural reaction that develops as the nervous system matures. When an infant is held upright and tilted forward, they instinctively extend their arms to break a fall, which shows the emergence of protective extension skills. This reflex appears later than earlier primitive reflexes like rooting or the Moro reflex, which fade earlier. The protective arm extension typically emerges around 8 to 9 months and then persists as a safety response. Therefore, a question asking when it is expected to appear points to the 8 to 10 months range, which aligns with the usual onset window. If this reflex is not observed by about 12 months, it would warrant further evaluation for neurodevelopmental concerns.

The parachute reflex is a protective postural reaction that develops as the nervous system matures. When an infant is held upright and tilted forward, they instinctively extend their arms to break a fall, which shows the emergence of protective extension skills.

This reflex appears later than earlier primitive reflexes like rooting or the Moro reflex, which fade earlier. The protective arm extension typically emerges around 8 to 9 months and then persists as a safety response. Therefore, a question asking when it is expected to appear points to the 8 to 10 months range, which aligns with the usual onset window.

If this reflex is not observed by about 12 months, it would warrant further evaluation for neurodevelopmental concerns.