Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy
How can Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy help my child?
By age three-and-a-half or four, the reflexes (primitive reflexes) used in the womb and early stages of infancy should be integrated and form the foundation for upright (postural reflexes) movement, coordination, and motor skills. These reflexes are present at birth and play an essential role in early development. If, for any reason, these baby reflexes are retained, they can interfere with progressive motor development, learning, hand eye coordination, and the thinking skills needed for independent learning in childhood and beyond. Retained primitive reflexes may also contribute to challenges such as poor handwriting, balance difficulties, and problems coordinating the arms and legs.
Children of all ages and abilities can show signs of immature integration of the primitive reflexes. We understand the specific needs of children with learning difficulties, as well as very young children, where preventative support may be helpful before starting in a formal academic setting.
This programme offers an opportunity to revisit areas of early development that may have been missed or not fully completed during infancy, including difficulties linked to birthing trauma. Through gentle movement patterns and integration exercises, it aims to strengthen neural pathways and support the healthy development of the central nervous system in a simple, effective, and natural way.
By integrating retained reflex patterns and integrating reflexes successfully, children can develop stronger foundations for learning and everyday activities. Reading, writing, concentration, and learning in general can become easier, more enjoyable, and less frustrating.
How does it work?
Primitive Reflex Integration therapy combines techniques from a range of modalities that address primitive reflexes. It is a movement-based programme designed to improve the neurological foundations of sensory-motor development and support the connection between different areas of the brain. The therapy uses gentle developmental movements that every baby and infant should naturally learn to make.
The programme follows the natural stages of brain and sensory development through both primitive and postural reflex integration. Activities may include movements where the head turned in a particular direction encourages coordinated responses throughout the body, helping children improve balance, coordination, sensory processing, and overall motor development.
It addresses:
The main primitive reflexes and helps integrate them progressively
Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR)
Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)
Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)
Spinal Galant
Babinski
Plantar, Palmar,
Hands Pulling, Grasp
Babkin reflexes
How is the therapy delivered?
Primitive Reflex Integration is a series of exercises implemented by the therapist, and followed through by the parent(s) for six weeks at home. The therapist’s work is usually done in our London therapy centre, but can be done in series of home visits too. The reflexes are interconnected, so there is a progressive nature to the therapy which must be followed through. In instances where the reflexes are not integrating easily, the child continues at home until there is progress, and the interval for the follow up can be increased to suit.
What should I do next?
If you are interested in Reflex Integration Therapy please book your initial assessment below.
What other tools does Raviv Practice London have for children at pre-school level or individuals at this developmental level?
There are plenty of other services that can help remove stress and anxiety, and nurture the development of better motor coordination for learning readiness, which are an excellent follow-on from Reflex Integration Therapy. For example, The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Listening Therapy (iLS), or even One-to-One Therapy.