At what age does the Babinski reflex usually start to disappear?

• A. 6 months
• B. 12 months
• C. 1-2 years
• D. 2-3 years

Answer: (C)

The Babinski reflex, which is characterized by the fanning and extension of the toes in response to stroking the sole of the foot, is a normal reflex present in infants. This reflex generally begins to appear at birth and is typically present until around 1 to 2 years of age.

Around this age, as the child's nervous system matures, the reflex will begin to diminish, and the response to a similar stimulus will change to a more adult-like plantar response (flexing the toes toward the foot). This change reflects the developmental progress of the child's neurological system, indicating growth and maturation.

Understanding the timeline of the Babinski reflex helps in assessing neurological development in infants and toddlers, making it an important milestone in pediatric health care.