Primitive Reflexes are automatic, involuntary movements that all babies are born with. These early reflexes play a crucial role in survival and development during infancy. As a baby’s brain matures, their central nervous system should gradually integrate these reflexes, replacing them with voluntary, controlled movements.

However, sometimes Primitive Reflexes do not integrate as they should — and that’s where Kinesiology can offer incredible support.

What are Primitive Reflexes?

Primitive Reflexes are designed to:

• Aid in feeding and digestion

• Encourage movement and build muscle tone

• Support head and neck control

• Stimulate sensory and brain integration

When these reflexes remain active beyond infancy (known as “retained reflexes”), they can interfere with a child’s motor skills, learning ability, emotional regulation, and behaviour.

Signs of Retained Primitive Reflexes:

• Poor coordination and balance

• Difficulty with fine motor tasks (like handwriting)

• Sensory processing challenges

• Attention and learning difficulties

• Emotional regulation issues

• Fussy eating habits

• Speech development delays

• Bedwetting beyond the usual age

Recognising these signs early allows for timely intervention, supporting your child’s neurological and physical development.

How Kinesiology Can Help with Primitive Reflex Integration

Lou Hardie our in-house Kinesiologist and Reiki Master has further pursued specialist education in Primitive Reflexes, and offers targeted support for children showing signs of retained reflexes. Through a gentle and holistic approach, Lou can:

• Assess and identify retained Primitive Reflexes using muscle monitoring

• Create individualised daily movement programs to encourage reflex integration

• Use muscle monitoring techniques to uncover underlying emotional stress, trauma, or stored patterns that may be contributing to the issue

Each session is uniquely tailored to your child’s needs, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects that may be contributing to the retained reflexes.

Why Address Retained Primitive Reflexes Early?

If Primitive Reflexes are not fully integrated, they can continue to impact a child’s physical coordination, cognitive abilities, sensory processing, and emotional well-being into adulthood. Early assessment and intervention with Kinesiology can make a profound difference in your child’s developmental journey, boosting confidence, learning ability, and overall quality of life.