Question

What is it called when babies grasp using their thumb?

Answer 1

When babies grasp using their thumb, it is referred to as a "palmar grasp" reflex. This reflex is one of the primitive reflexes present in newborns, where they will instinctively close their hand around an object placed in their palm. The thumb may not be fully involved in this grasping action at first, but as they develop, they will start to use their thumb more effectively in a coordinated grasp called the "pincer grasp," which typically emerges around 9 to 12 months of age when they can pinch objects between their thumb and forefinger.