Babies learn touch while still in womb

Psychologists from Durham and Lancaster universities found that foetuses were able to predict, rather than simply react to, their own hand movements towards their mouths as they entered the later stages of gestation.

Researchers said the latest findings could improve understanding about babies, especially those born prematurely, their readiness to interact socially and their ability to calm themselves by sucking on their thumb or fingers.

Lead author Nadja Reissland, from Durham University, said: “Increased touching of the lower part of the face and mouth in foetuses could be an indicator of brain development necessary for healthy development, including preparedness for social interaction, self-soothing and feeding.”