#232 - Commonly Seen Retained Primitive Reflexes in the Classroom

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Commonly Seen Retained Primitive Reflexes in the Classroom

Today we’re going to dive into what happens when a child has retained primitive reflexes and they are in school - what does this look like? What does it mean? And how can teachers help?

Challenges at school that may seem like behaviors or even other diagnoses, such as ADHD or Anxiety, even SPD, could really be related to those underlying reflexes that never were integrated.

Links

Primitive Reflex Digital Course

Improving Focus and Behavior in the Classroom - Digital Course

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

Ep. 199 - The Covid Regression in Schools 

The Primitive Reflex Podcast Series

Ep. 149: The Palmar Grasp Reflex

Blog: What are Primitive Reflexes?

YouTube: Primitive Reflex Playlist

Study: The Prevalence of Retained Primitive Reflexes in a a Class of Healthy Preschoolers

Commonly Seen Retained Primitive Reflexes In The Classroom

Have you noticed a student struggling to sit still, copy from the board, or stay organized? What if these challenges, often mistaken for ADHD, sensory processing disorder (SPD), or even anxiety, were linked to retained primitive reflexes? 

Essential in early childhood development, these reflexes can linger when not fully integrated, affecting learning, behavior, and emotional regulation. Let’s explore what retained primitive reflexes look like in the classroom and how to support these students effectively.

What Are Primitive Reflexes And Why Do They Matter?

Primitive reflexes are automatic, involuntary movements present at birth that help infants survive and develop. As children grow, these reflexes should integrate, making way for voluntary, controlled movements. 

When they don’t, it’s like carrying an outdated app on your phone—it slows down the system and creates inefficiencies. For instance:

• The Moro reflex helps newborns respond to stimuli but, when retained, can trigger chronic fight-or-flight responses, increasing anxiety.

• The ATNR (asymmetrical tonic neck reflex) aids early hand-eye coordination. Retention can hinder copying from the board or smooth coordination.

Without proper integration, retained reflexes can contribute to difficulty focusing, learning delays, and poor motor skills.

Classroom Red Flags Of Retained Reflexes

Here are some common signs that may indicate a child has retained primitive reflexes:

1. Difficulty Sitting Still

• Often associated with the spinal Galant reflex, these children may appear fidgety, constantly shifting in their chairs as if they have "ants in their pants."

2. Struggles with Copying from the Board

• Retained ATNR or STNR reflexes can interfere with head and eye movements, making this task frustrating and exhausting.

3. Poor Coordination

• Tasks like writing, cutting, or sports may reveal issues with retained TLR (tonic labyrinthine reflex), ATNR, or STNR reflexes. Overflow movements, like sticking out the tongue during concentration, might also be present.

4. Heightened Anxiety

• A retained Moro reflex keeps the body in a state of fight-or-flight, which can make even routine activities overwhelming.

5. Poor Organizational Skills

• Retained TLR or ATNR reflexes can affect spatial awareness, time management, and even the ability to keep track of homework.

The Research Behind Retained Reflexes

A study of preschoolers found that 95% had retained the TLR reflex, with significant retention rates for other reflexes like the ATNR and STNR. Retention rates were higher in children exposed to stressors like birth trauma, reduced floor time as infants, or limited movement opportunities.

How Teachers And Therapists Can Help

The good news? Retained reflexes can be integrated with targeted activities, often resembling play or movement exercises. Here’s how you can start making a difference:

1. Incorporate Movement Breaks

• Rocking Egg: Have students curl into a ball and rock gently to help the Moro reflex and provide calming input.

• Cat-Cow Yoga Pose: Slowly transitioning between arched and rounded backs supports STNR integration.

2. Daily Warm-Up Exercises

• Bird Dog: On hands and knees, extend one arm and the opposite leg to improve balance and coordination.

• Superman To Banana: Alternating between lying on the stomach (arms and legs lifted) and back strengthens core muscles and integrates TLR.

3. Promote Sensory Awareness

• Tools like weighted lap pads or fidget toys can provide calming input, helping students stay focused.

4. Create Multi-Sensory Learning Opportunities

• Use visual charts and tactile aids to support children struggling with motor tasks like writing or drawing.

5. Implement Routine Screening

• Early identification of retained reflexes can set the stage for timely interventions.

Final Thought

Understanding and addressing retained primitive reflexes could be the key to unlocking potential in children who seem stuck or struggling. We can build a strong foundation for learning and development by incorporating simple movement routines and creating sensory-friendly environments. 

The Primitive Reflex that Affects Reading and Organization

BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

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