There are many different reflexes which affect development, the following are ones that commonly interfere with learning.
Moro Reflex: Triggered by a sudden change in head position, the head tilts back, arms/legs go into extension with a deep inhalation in; followed by the head, arms and legs folding in flexion, hands go into fists with exhalation.
How does this reflex Help Us?
Signals the fight or flight system
Helps us to organize and self-regulate
Foundation for concentration and comprehension
What will happen if the reflex doesn't integrate properlY?
Excessive anxiety
Over worked adrenal glands leading to
Weakened immune system, allergies, infections
Hypersensitivity of vestibular system
Poor balance, motion sickness
Fear of taking risks required for learning leading to dependency
Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex: (ATNR): This is triggered when the head turns to one side, the arms and legs on that side extend while the limbs on the other side bend in flexion.
How does this reflex Help Us?
Helps infant breathe when on their tummy
Hearing development for protection
Foundation of language development
Flexion/extension of arms and legs, basis for later reaching
Differentiation of right and left sides of the body
Key for finding midline and developing hand dominance
Assists in the development of hand/eye coordination
Affects attention and working memory
What will happen if the reflex doesn't integrate properlY?
Difficulty crossing midline
Difficulty with attention, focus, memory and thinking
Inadequate or mixed hand dominance
Difficulty with throwing and catching
Learning issues with reading, spelling, math and handwriting
Spinal Galant Reflex: Triggered while laying on the stomach or side and the back is touched on the side of the spine, the body then flexes or curves toward the side touched on.
How does this reflex Help Us?
Helps with birthing
Has a strong connection with the auditory and vestibular systems
Assists with flexibility in the spine and joint rotation
Coordinates the legs with the core of the body
What will happen if the reflex doesn't integrate properlY?
Incorrect hip rotation leading to abnormal gait
Scoliosis
Incontinence, irritable bowel system
AHDH
Fidgeting in seat
Deficits in auditory processing
Discomfort with tight fitting clothing
Babinski Reflex: When the outer side of the foot is stroked or touched, the big toe extends toward the head, the other toes curl and the ankle rotates inward.
What will happen if the reflex doesn't integrate properlY?
Poor balance
Poor bilateral integration
Language delays
Difficulties with gross and fine motor coordination
Lack of grounding and stability
How does this reflex Help Us?
It provides grounding and stability
Prepares infant for standing
Needed for walking gait
Balance, both static and dynamic
Hands Grasping Reflex: Triggered by touch at the base of the fingers, the hand will firmly grasp and hold onto an object.
What will happen if the reflex doesn't integrate properlY?
Excessive pressure on pencil or pen due to involuntary flexion of fingers
Inefficient pencil grip, finger fatigue
Aversion to handwriting, written expression, and other fine motor skills
Negative effect on speech and communication skills
How does this reflex Help Us?
Hanging on for dear life
Gross hand motor coordination
Fine motor skills
Basis for hand-eye, hand-mouth and Hand-leg coordination