Newborn babies are born with strong reflexes that help them begin breastfeeding. When your baby lies skin-to-skin, these reflexes activate naturally. The key reflexes are:

Rooting reflex: When the cheek or mouth is touched, your baby turns toward the touch and opens their mouth.

Sucking reflex: When the roof of the mouth is stimulated, rhythmic sucking begins.

Swallowing reflex: When milk flows, your baby coordinates suck–swallow–breathe.

Together, these reflexes help your baby move toward the breast through the breast crawl. It’s normal for this process to take time and include pauses.

🌿 Alma’s tips

• Skin-to-skin activates feeding reflexes — start there.

• Allow your baby to move freely and approach the breast at their own pace.

• Support the baby’s back and hips but avoid guiding the head.