How Reflex Retention Impacts Learning
Every parent dreams of seeing their child excel in school, whether that’s acing their first spelling test or learning to ride a bike. But for some children, retained primitive reflexes (RPRs) create unseen barriers to learning and motor development. These lingering reflexes—typically integrated between six and 12 months of age—can disrupt the body’s natural coordination and brain development, leading to challenges in academics and daily life.
The Connection Between Reflexes and Learning
Primitive reflexes are hardwired, automatic responses that help babies survive and grow during their first months of life. For instance, the Palmar Grasp reflex enables newborns to grasp objects instinctively, an action vital for early interaction with their environment. While critical for infancy, these reflexes need to be ‘switched off’ as the brain matures and voluntary motor skills take over.
When reflexes linger beyond infancy, they can interfere with motor coordination, posture, and cognitive processes. For example, a retained asymmetric tonic neck reflex (ATNR)—which causes a baby’s arm to extend when their head turns—can make it difficult for children to cross their midline. Crossing the midline is essential for tasks like reading left to right or writing smoothly across a page. Without it, children may struggle with handwriting, letter reversals, and even visual tracking.
How Retained Reflexes Show Up in Learning
Parents might notice subtle signs of RPRs affecting their child’s academic performance or physical coordination. These signs can include:
Difficulty with fine motor skills: Trouble holding a pencil, tying shoes, or using scissors.
Clumsiness: Frequently tripping, bumping into objects, or struggling with balance.
Challenges in focus: Difficulty maintaining attention or switching between tasks.
Poor posture: Slouching during activities like writing or reading.
Such behaviours can make schoolwork feel overwhelming, leading to frustration and a lack of confidence in the classroom.
Therapies to Address Reflex Retention
The good news is that retained reflexes can be identified and integrated with targeted therapies. Exercises have been designed to replicate the movements infants naturally make to integrate these reflexes. For instance, crawling exercises can help organise the brain and body to overcome reflex-related barriers.
Additionally, sensory stimulation techniques, such as rhythmic exercises or balancing activities, work to recalibrate the brain’s neural pathways. These approaches encourage the brain to ‘rewrite’ its responses, creating a stronger foundation for learning and motor skills.
The Path to Success
By addressing RPRs, children often experience significant improvements in their academic and social lives. Reading becomes smoother, handwriting steadier, and focus more consistent. Many parents report seeing a newfound confidence in their children as they navigate tasks that once seemed insurmountable.
For parents, the journey begins with awareness. If your child seems to struggle with learning or coordination, consulting a professional who understands reflex retention can provide clarity. It’s never too late. Adults and teens can also integrate reflexes, not just for young children.
