WHY IT MATTERS

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements that help babies survive and grow in the first months of life. These reflexes start in the brainstem and are important in early development. As a child grows, these reflexes should fade away and be replaced by more mature movements.

When reflexes don’t fully go away, they can affect how a child moves, learns, behaves, and handles emotions. We refer to these as “retained reflexes”.

Children with retained reflexes might have trouble with balance, posture, handwriting, big emotions, or sitting still. These challenges are often seen as behavior or attention problems, but they may be signs that the brain and body are still stuck in “survival mode.”

Occupational therapists trained in reflex integration can check for retained reflexes and use movement activities to help the brain and body work better together.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Trouble with balance, coordination, or posture

• Difficulty sitting still (“wiggly” or constantly moving)

• Delays in gross or fine motor skills

• Big emotional reactions or trouble calming down

• Sensory sensitivities (to sounds, lights, touch, etc.)

• Difficulties with handwriting or reading

• Challenges with change or feeling safe in new places