Understanding Primitive Reflexes in Developmental Delays
When a baby is born, their tiny bodies come equipped with a set of instinctive movements known as primitive reflexes. These reflexes are nature's way of ensuring survival in those early months, like grasping a caregiver’s finger or turning toward a touch on the cheek to seek food. By the age of 4 to 6 months, these reflexes usually fade (typically disappearing by 12 months), making way for more complex motor skills and cognitive abilities. But what happens when they don’t?
For some children, especially those experiencing developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), primitive reflexes persist well beyond infancy. Known as retained primitive reflexes (RPRs), these lingering movements can create roadblocks in a child’s development. Imagine trying to build a house on a shaky foundation—retained reflexes are much like those foundational cracks, affecting balance, coordination, emotional regulation, and even learning.
What Are Retained Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are early brainstem responses designed to help a newborn adapt to their world. For example, the Moro reflex—often called the ‘startle reflex’—prepares babies to protect themselves by flinging their arms outward in response to sudden noise or movement. If this reflex persists, it can cause heightened sensitivity to stimuli, difficulty calming down, and even challenges with focus as children grow.
Another example is the asymmetric tonic neck reflex (ATNR), which assists with early hand-eye coordination. If retained, ATNR can lead to trouble crossing the body’s midline—a skill crucial for reading, writing, and other everyday tasks.
The Impact of Retained Reflexes on Development
Retained reflexes can interfere with the natural maturation of the brain, creating an uneven pattern of skills. Children with RPRs may struggle with:
Motor skills: Poor coordination, balance issues, and clumsiness can arise.
Emotional regulation: Difficulty managing reactions to everyday stressors.
Learning challenges: Trouble with reading, writing, and staying focused.
These challenges often go hand in hand with uneven brain development, where one hemisphere may dominate while the other lags, further exacerbating delays.
The Good News: Retained Reflexes Can Be Addressed
The human brain has an incredible ability to adapt, even in the presence of retained reflexes. Through targeted therapies, children can learn to integrate these reflexes, unlocking their potential for growth and independence. Techniques like sensory stimulation, repetitive exercises, coloured lenses, essential oils, vibration therapy, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) have shown promising results in reducing RPRs.
One study demonstrated significant improvements in children who underwent a progressive development program combining sensory exercises with TENS. These children not only showed reduced reflex retention but also exhibited better brainwave patterns and improved behaviour. Parents reported their children becoming more focused, engaged, and socially interactive.
What Parents Can Do
As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to observe your child’s milestones and seek professional advice if you notice developmental delays or unusual behaviours. Early intervention can make a profound difference. Paediatric specialists, occupational therapists, and developmental programs can provide guidance and tailored exercises to address retained reflexes.
By taking small, consistent steps, you can help your child strengthen their foundation and reach their fullest potential. Remember, every child develops at their own pace, and with the right support, they can overcome the hurdles posed by retained reflexes.
