It’s a bird… It’s a plane… Wait, is that your newborn? Ever held up a five-month-old baby and seen them suddenly flatten out, legs straight, looking exactly like they’re Superman taking flight over Metropolis? Well, don’t be alarmed; you aren’t alone. What you’re witnessing is an adorable quirk of infancy that has an important effect on a child’s development. 

So, put your onesie in its upright position. We’re about to take off and learn why your baby has a built-in neurological blueprint hard at work—and why they’re developing abs of steel. 

The stealth workout hiding in plain sight

The raised head, arched back, and lifted legs you’re seeing are a natural and necessary part of a baby’s growth. It’s known as the Landau Reflex. It’s a remarkable developmental milestone that typically kicks in around three to four months of age. When an infant is held horizontally face down, their body responds with an automatic, full-body extension. It’s not just a cute parlor trick; it’s a crucial,........

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