Which reflex indicates that a newborn is responding to stimuli around them?

The sucking reflex is primarily associated with feeding, as it enables newborns to consume milk from the breast or bottle. While it shows an instinctive response to hunger and feeding stimuli, it does not specifically indicate a broader responsiveness to environmental stimuli.

The rooting reflex, on the other hand, is indicative of how a newborn responds to oral-related stimuli. When something touches a newborn's cheek or mouth, they instinctively turn their head toward the stimulus and begin to suck. This reflex demonstrates a direct response to stimuli in their surroundings, particularly during feeding.

The startle reflex, also known as the Moro reflex, shows a newborn's response to sudden changes in their environment, such as loud noises or a feeling of falling. This reflex illustrates their ability to react to startle stimuli but is more about their reaction to sudden sensations rather than general environmental awareness.

The walking reflex is a primitive reflex that can be observed when a newborn appears to take steps when held upright with their feet touching a flat surface. While it showcases some involuntary movement, it does not indicate responsiveness to environmental stimuli in the same way as the rooting reflex does.

The rooting reflex is crucial for ensuring that the newborn can locate and latch onto a food source, reflecting a basic survival mechanism tied to