Primitive Reflexes - What are those?

What are primitive reflexes in a baby and why is it important to understand what they are and how they work?  Primitive reflexes are the body’s automatic movements/responses to a stimulus. Initially, reflexes help assist with a baby’s ability to survive and grow prior to birth and early infancy. They also assist with building higher level foundational skills needed as the child grows.

When do they disappear?

  • Usually reflexes begin to disappear before the age of 1, yet they are thought to stay at the back burner until we use more mature skills instead.

When is it a concern?

  • Many typical developing individuals have a retained or immature reflex that is not integrated. However, it can impact the quality and effort that may be needed to do certain things. It becomes a concern when it begins to impact FUNCTION. Yet, more than reflexes can lead to difficulty with function.

  • Some examples of areas that may be negatively impacted are coordination, balance, social skills, learning abilities, and more.

How do I know if this relates to my child?

  • We encourage our families to focus on function. If you see concerns with your child’s ability to participate in age-appropriate activities, difficulty with socials skills, learning abilities, coordination, or balance; please contact Therapy OPS to learn more about how we as therapists can support you and your child.

 Therapy OPS takes a holistic perspective to treat all areas that may be impacting your child’s overall function. If we feel that a reflex is impacting your child’s success with an activity, we can use play-based treatments to help promote integration of that specific reflex.If you have any questions about your child’s primitive reflexes, please contact TOPS and a therapist would be happy to discuss your questions