DefinitionBabinski's reflex occurs when the big toe moves toward the top of the foot and the other toes fan out after the sole of the foot has been firmly stroked.This reflex, or sign, is normal in younger children, but abnormal after the age of 2.Alternative NamesReflex - Babinski's; Extensor plantar reflex; Babinski's signConsiderationsReflexes are specific, predictable, involuntary responses to a particular type of stimulation.Babinski's reflex is one of the infantile reflexes. It is normal in children up to 2 years old, but it disappears as the child ages and the nervous system becomes more developed. It may disappear as early as 12 months.The presence of a Babinski's reflex after age 2 is a sign of damage to the nerve paths connecting the spinal cord and the brain (the corticospinal t