Gentle touch activates the prefrontal cortex in infancy: An NIRS study

► We examined activation of the anterior prefrontal cortex (APFC) by gentle touch of the palm in infancy. ► The hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations were measured using NIRS. ► 10-Month-olds, but not 3- and 6-month-olds, showed bilateral activation of the APFC by gentle touching of the palm.