Newborn squirming—the frequent wiggling, flailing, and jerky movement—often concerns new parents. This universal infant behavior usually signals normal neurological and physical processes at work, not distress. Understanding the reasons behind a baby’s high activity level helps parents distinguish healthy development from a true need for intervention. This article provides clarity on why your baby is squirmy and how to manage the restlessness.
Squirming as Normal Motor Development
Much of the movement observed in newborns is involuntary, stemming from reflexes programmed into the nervous system. The most common is the Moro reflex, or startle reflex, a response to a sudden change in balance or a loud noise. When triggered, the baby quickly flings their arms out, opens their hands, and then draws their limbs back in. This reflex is present from birth and usually fades around two to four months of age, signaling healthy neurological maturity.
Squirming also manifests the baby’s developing motor skills as they practice movements. Their movements are often jerky because the brain is still learning to coordinate muscles that were confined in utero. Newborns spend a significant portion of their sleep cycle in active sleep, or Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, characterized by frequent body movements, twitches, and grunting. This active sleep is important for brain development, and the accompanying restlessness is a normal part of their rest pattern.
Common Causes of Infant Discomfort
While much squirming is developmental, other movements result from physical discomfort, most often related to the digestive system. Gas buildup is a primary culprit, causing babies to scrunch their face, pull their legs up to their chest, or strain to pass air. This issue arises because the infant digestive tract is immature and babies frequently swallow air while feeding or crying.
Another frequent cause is gastroesophageal reflux (GOR), where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus because the muscular valve at the top of the stomach is not fully developed. Babies with reflux may arch their back during or after a feeding, appear distressed, or have difficulty settling when laid flat. Though most reflux is mild, persistent discomfort or poor weight gain can signal Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Simple environmental factors can also provoke restlessness. Being too hot or too cold can lead to squirming, as can overstimulation from noise, light, or handling. A baby who is overtired but struggling to fall asleep may also engage in frantic, restless movements as they fight sleep.
Techniques for Soothing Excessive Movement
Soothing techniques often provide immediate relief when squirming is caused by discomfort. For gas, gently “bicycling” the baby’s legs while they lie on their back helps move trapped air through the intestines. Applying gentle pressure and performing a clockwise massage on the baby’s abdomen also encourages gas bubbles to pass.
To manage air intake during feeding, ensure the baby is burped halfway through and again at the end of each session. Holding the baby in an upright position for 20 to 30 minutes after a feed uses gravity to help keep milk down and reduce reflux symptoms. Swaddling is an effective technique to manage the involuntary Moro reflex, as the snug wrap provides a secure boundary that prevents the baby from startling themselves awake. Always ensure the baby is placed on their back when swaddled, and discontinue swaddling immediately when the baby shows signs of rolling over.
Identifying When to Consult a Pediatrician
While the majority of infant squirming is normal, certain signs warrant a medical evaluation. A pediatrician should be consulted if the baby’s movements are consistently accompanied by a failure to gain weight or a refusal to feed, which can signal severe reflux or other issues. Parents should also seek advice if the Moro reflex is still strongly present after six months of age, as this may indicate a delayed developmental milestone.
Immediate consultation is necessary if the movements appear repetitive, jerky, or rhythmic, which could signal seizure-like activity known as infantile spasms. A high-pitched, inconsolable cry combined with a fever or unusual limpness also requires prompt attention. If you are concerned about a sudden change in your baby’s typical movement patterns, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.