Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy

How can Reflex Integration Therapy help my child?

By around age two-and-a-half or three, the primitive reflexes needed for survival pre-birth and during early infancy should usually be integrated. Developmentally this demonstrates advancement of the brain and nervous system as the infant progresses from an automatic reflexive behaviour to a more organised brain directed movement. This transition forms the foundation for postural reflexes, sensory-motor development, upright movement, coordination and motor skills. Movement drives curioursity for the developing brain. Movement also helps create the channels for more advance thinking (cognitive development).

When these early baby reflexes are retained, they can interfere with typical motor development. Retained primitive reflexes are linked with balance difficutlites, coordination difficulties generally, coordination of different body parts such as of arms and legs (for running, swimming), hand eye coordination, poor attention skills and fidgety behavoiur. These challenges then form barriers learning to build language skills which then have a knock on effect on reading, spelling and other academic demands.

Children of all ages and abilities can show signs of retained reflexes. This is especially relevant for children with neurodivergent conditions such as ASD, AuADHD, ADHD, Dyslexia, DCD, Developmental Delay. All children starting school can benefit from support to help them in a formal academic settiing and accelerate their learning potential.

Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy gives children the chance to revisit early developmental patterns that may have been missed or not fully completed during infancy, including difficulties linked to birth trauma or developmental delay and or a suspected/diagnosed neurodivergent condition. Using gentle movement patterns and integration exercises, the programme helps new creates neural pathways and the healthy development of the central nervous system.

As retained reflex patterns become more integrated, children can build stronger foundations for learning and everyday activities. Reading, writing, concentration and general learning may become easier, more enjoyable and less frustrating.