Most parents are told that early reflexes are something children “grow out of.” While that idea is common, it’s incomplete. Primitive reflexes don’t simply disappear — they are meant to integrate as the brain matures.
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns controlled by the brainstem. Babies are born with them to support survival, feeding, protection, and early movement. As development progresses, higher brain regions gradually take control, allowing voluntary movement, balance, emotional regulation, and learning to emerge.
When this integration process is incomplete, the nervous system may continue operating in a more reactive and less efficient state. At NeuroFiT Connections, we often see how this can subtly — and sometimes significantly — influence a child’s daily functioning.
What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes originate in the brainstem and spinal cord, the earliest-developing parts of the nervous system. They appear in utero or at birth and follow a predictable developmental timeline.
Some of the most well-known primitive reflexes include:
Moro (startle)
Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)
Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)
Palmar and Plantar Grasp
Each reflex serves a specific purpose early in life. Over time, the brain is meant to inhibit these reflexes as postural control, balance reactions, and voluntary movement take over.
Integration vs. Inhibition: Why Language Matters
Primitive reflexes are not “bad,” and they don’t need to be “eliminated.” They are integrated, meaning higher brain centers gain control over them.
When a reflex remains active, it does not indicate damage or disease. Instead, it often reflects an underactive neurological system that hasn’t yet completed a developmental step.
This distinction is important. Neurodevelopment is not about fixing what’s broken — it’s about supporting what hasn’t fully matured yet.
Commonly Retained Reflexes and Their Impact
Certain reflexes are more commonly retained than others, especially in children with learning, behavioral, or coordination challenges.
Moro Reflex
The Moro reflex is closely tied to the stress response system. When retained, it may contribute to heightened emotional reactivity, anxiety, or difficulty handling change.
ATNR
ATNR helps babies coordinate vision and movement. If retained, it can interfere with reading fluency, handwriting, and eye tracking.
STNR
STNR supports the transition from lying down to crawling and sitting. Retention may affect posture, seated attention, and overall endurance in the classroom.
TLR
TLR influences muscle tone and balance. Children with retained TLR may struggle with motion sensitivity, coordination, or spatial awareness.
Palmar Grasp
This reflex lays the foundation for hand use. Retention can contribute to fine motor fatigue and inefficient handwriting.
Why Reflexes Affect Learning and Behavior
Learning is not just a cognitive process — it is a neurological and physical one.
When primitive reflexes remain active:
The brain uses extra energy to stabilize posture
The nervous system stays on higher alert
Fine motor and visual systems must compensate
This can make tasks like reading, writing, sitting still, or emotional regulation more effortful than they need to be.
Importantly, this does not reflect a lack of intelligence or motivation. Many children with retained reflexes are bright, creative, and capable — their nervous systems are simply working harder behind the scenes.
How NeuroFiT Connections Approaches Reflex Integration
At NeuroFiT Connections, we use movement-based neurological strategies to support brain development from the ground up.
Our approach focuses on:
Targeted sensory-motor input
Hemispheric-specific activities
Gradual, developmentally appropriate challenges
Rather than forcing skills, we support the brain’s natural ability to organize itself. When the foundation improves, higher-level skills often become easier and more efficient.
A Developmental Perspective
Primitive reflexes remind us that development follows a sequence. Skipping or rushing steps can make later tasks harder.
By identifying and supporting underactive systems, we help create a more stable neurological foundation — one that supports learning, emotional regulation, and resilience.
Development is not something we push.
It’s something we support.
