Like many new parents, I found myself captivated by my newborn’s tiny features—those delicate eyelashes, that adorable little nose. And when I saw a smile on their face, my heart would melt. But every time I excitedly pointed out the smile, someone would quickly dismiss it, saying, “Oh, that’s just a reflex. Babies can’t really smile yet.” Or, “No way, that’s just gas.”
Despite what I read in parenting books, I couldn’t shake the feeling that my babies were smiling at me, especially after I beamed at them. It felt like they were reacting to the love I was showering upon them.
Now, it turns out I’m not alone in thinking that those early smiles are authentic. Dr. Emily Carter, a psychologist and researcher from the University of Edinburgh, shares in her article on The Conversation that newborn smiles aren’t merely reflexes; they might reflect genuine emotional responses, even in those initial days of life.
The Evolving Perception of Infant Emotions
For centuries, the prevailing belief was that infants were simply instinctual beings, lacking the capacity for emotional expression or social interaction. However, Dr. Carter notes that this perception is evolving. Research indicates that babies can feel pain akin to adults and possess the ability to regulate their own responses. When overwhelmed, they may fall asleep to escape stimulation, and when they have needs, they cry to communicate them (oh yes, they certainly do!).
Dr. Carter also highlights that infants can initiate smiles as early as 36 hours after birth. She has reviewed substantial evidence suggesting that newborn smiles can signal emotional reactions. “There have always been indications that these smiles might indicate positive feelings,” she states. “Smiling has been observed within days of birth in response to gentle touches on their cheeks or bellies, and even in reaction to sweet tastes and odors.”
Changing Perspectives on Smiles
Historically, researchers doubted the validity of these smiles because they appeared to engage only the mouth muscles, unlike “real” smiles, which involve the eyes. This perspective, however, is changing, as Dr. Carter explains that other facial muscles are indeed involved when babies smile. “Newborns often move their cheeks and brows before smiling, suggesting they are focusing on their caregiver’s face,” she notes. “It’s entirely plausible that these little ones are genuinely attempting to smile.”
Moreover, she asserts that there is consistent evidence indicating these expressions are meaningful and directly tied to loving interactions with caregivers. “Babies quickly learn the significance of smiling,” Dr. Carter adds. “Caregivers are more likely to smile back when the baby is calm, creating a rewarding cycle of interaction.”
The Joy of Newborn Smiles
Isn’t that fascinating? While it’s great to have research backing our instincts, most of us parents know deep down that those smiles are as real as it gets. When your newborn beams at you, it’s an unparalleled joy.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to revisit baby photos of my little ones and marvel at how fast they’ve grown, while reminiscing about their sweet smiles.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, recent research challenges the long-held belief that newborn smiles are merely reflexes. Instead, these early expressions may represent genuine emotional responses, indicating that infants are capable of social interaction and emotional regulation from a remarkably young age.