Many parents notice that their child is intelligent and capable, yet certain daily tasks such as focusing, regulating emotions, or coordinating movement seem unusually difficult.
One possible reason is retained primitive reflexes.
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns present in infancy that help babies survive and develop. As the brain matures, these reflexes should integrate during the first year of life. When they remain active, they can interfere with how the brain processes information and controls movement.
Below are some common signs that may indicate unintegrated primitive reflexes.
1. Difficulty Focusing or Paying Attention
Children may appear restless, distracted, or constantly moving in their seat. Maintaining attention for schoolwork or quiet tasks may feel difficult.
2. Frequent Meltdowns or Emotional Outbursts
Frequent meltdowns, heightened anxiety, or strong emotional reactions may occur when the nervous system has difficulty regulating itself.
3. Poor Balance and Coordination
Primitive reflexes play a role in early movement development. When they remain active, children may appear clumsy or have difficulty with activities like:
- Riding a bike
- Catching a ball
- Jumping with two feet
- Standing on one leg
4. Poor Handwriting
Writing requires coordination between the eyes, hands, posture, and fine motor control. If reflexes remain active, handwriting may be slow, messy, or tiring.
5. Difficulty Reading or Tracking Words
Some reflexes affect how the eyes work together. This can make it difficult for a child to smoothly track words across a page when reading.
6. Sensitivity to Noise, Touch, or Movement
Children may be overly sensitive to certain sensory experiences or may seek constant movement to regulate their nervous system.
7. Poor Posture
Retained reflexes can make it difficult for children to maintain upright posture for long periods of time, especially at a desk or table.
8. Motion Sickness
Children with certain retained reflexes may experience motion sickness more easily than their peers.
9. Bedwetting Beyond the Expected Age
Some primitive reflexes are connected to bladder control and nervous system maturity.
10. Low Confidence or Self-Esteem
When everyday tasks require extra effort, children may begin to feel frustrated or believe they are not capable, even when they are intelligent and trying their best.
When to Seek Support
If your child shows several of these signs, a primitive reflex assessment can help determine whether retained reflexes may be contributing to their challenges.
Through targeted reflex integration exercises, the brain can strengthen connections and support more mature movement and learning patterns.
If you notice these signs, learn more about how primitive reflexes affect learning and behaviour
You may also want to read about what happens during a primitive reflex assessment in Calgary
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