You may have heard the term primitive reflexes and wondered what it actually means.
If your child is struggling with classroom learning, focus, or coordination, this can be an important piece of the puzzle.
What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are natural, automatic movements that develop before your baby is born.
They play an important role in early development and are usually inhibited (or “switched off”) during the first year of life through early floor movements, tummy time, and play.
When these reflexes are retained, they can make later learning much more challenging.
Why Do They Matter?
Learning isn’t just about thinking—it also involves the whole body.
Children need to be able to:
- sit comfortably in a chair
- focus their eyes on a visual target
- listen to and process information
- coordinate their body’s movements
- maintain muscle tone
……all at the same time!
If retained reflexes have interrupted your child’s early development, these skills can feel much harder to coordinate.
What You Might Notice
When retained, primitive reflexes can affect learning and behaviour.
They often look like signs of ADHD.
You might see:
- difficulty sitting still
- poor coordination
- trouble concentrating
- difficulties with listening
- challenges with reading or writing
- emotional outbursts
- startles easily, impulsive
- poor balance and muscle tone
These are not signs of laziness —they are often signs that your child would benefit from some support.
A Gentle Next Step
If any of this resonates, it can help to look a little deeper at aspects of your child’s development.
When the foundations for leaning are a bit “wobbly” it can be hard for your child to keep up in class.
With understanding and the right support, children can re-build these foundations.
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
You might also find helpful:
👉Why is My Child Struggling at School? Understanding Early Development and Primitive Reflexes
