What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Automatic movements babies are born with that help them survive and develop. They're supposed to "switch off" as the brain matures in the first year of life.
Is Your Child Struggling? It Might Be Retained Reflexes
Those little struggles you've noticed may have a name—and more importantly, a solution you can start at home.
Understanding Primitive Reflexes
What Is Reflex Integration?
The natural process where these automatic patterns fade away and get replaced by voluntary, controlled movement. When this doesn't happen, challenges can emerge.
Why This Matters
Retained reflexes aren't a diagnosis—they're a clue. Understanding them opens the door to targeted support that can make a real difference in your child's life.
Quick Screening: Does Your Child Show These Signs?
Tap each reflex to see common signs. Check any that sound familiar—this is just a starting point.
The Moro reflex is your child's early "alarm system." When retained, children live in a constant state of fight-or-flight, making everyday situations feel overwhelming.
The TLR helps babies understand "up" from "down." When retained, children struggle with balance, posture, and spatial awareness.
The ATNR links head turning to arm movement. When retained, turning the head while writing or reading triggers involuntary arm movements—making schoolwork exhausting.
The STNR creates a "seesaw" pattern between upper and lower body. Looking down makes arms bend; looking up makes them straighten. This makes desk work physically exhausting.
This reflex makes the back extremely sensitive to touch. When retained, even clothing or chair backs can trigger involuntary hip movements—and importantly, affect bladder control.
You've identified 0 signs across 0 reflexes
Common Questions
Can retained reflexes be fixed?
Yes! Through targeted exercises done at home, the brain can integrate these reflexes at any age. Most families see progress within 3-6 months.
What if only a few signs match?
Even 2-3 signs can indicate a reflex worth addressing. It's not about "how many" but understanding the pattern.
What ages does this help?
Reflex integration helps children ages 4 through adulthood. We typically work with kids 4-12, but it's never too late.
Ready for the Full Assessment?
This screening covers 5 key reflexes. Get access to our comprehensive assessment covering all 8 reflexes with detailed signs and personalized recommendations.
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