Primitive Reflexes
What are primitive reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are reflexes to look for to make sure a baby is developing on target for their age. These reflexes are typically integrated at about 6 months of age and can be seen through the age of one. Primitive reflexes are used for protection, safety, and awareness purposes.
Types of primitive reflexes
Several common primitive reflexes are:
Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR):
- Purpose: awareness and protection
- Baby turns head to one side
- Extremities on this side are straight
- Extremities on other side of body are bent
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR):
- Start showing around 6-9 months
- Also known as “crawling reflex”
- Head moves forward → legs straighten, arms bend
- Head moves back→ legs bend and arms straighten
Moro Reflex:
- When a baby’s head is lowered back it triggers a reaction in which the baby’s arms will fail back then come back to midline
- Used for safety
Rooting Reflex:
- When a baby’s cheek is stroked the baby will turn its head toward that stimulus (finger, bottle, breast)
- Important for feeding
Signs of Difficulty or Delay:
- Trouble crossing midline
- Unable to roll over and back successfully
- Easily startled
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Poor posture
- Low muscle tone
- Poor balance
- Reading or writing difficulties
- Difficulties with proper crawling
- Delays in walking
- Interference with head control
- Interference with bilateral abilities
Exercises To Integrate Primitive Reflexes!
Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR):
- Lizard crawling
- More information at: The OT Toolbox
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR):
- Using a roller while completing a puzzle or doing a shape sorter
- On all fours grabbing scattered puzzle pieces to complete a puzzle
- Cat and Cow yoga poses
Moro reflex:
- Starfish exercise
- More information at: The OT Toolbox
Rooting reflex:
- Face stroking
- Stroke the side of the baby’s face 5-6 times, on each side
