What Are Retained Primitive Reflexes and Why Do They Matter?
Primitive reflexes are automatic, involuntary movements that originate in the brainstem and are typically present in infants. These reflexes play a critical role in early development by supporting key functions such as birth, feeding, movement, and sensory integration. Over time, as a child’s brain matures, these reflexes are expected to integrate—meaning they fade as higher brain functions like voluntary movement and control take over.
However, in some children, primitive reflexes do not integrate as expected. This is referred to as reflex retention, and it can have a significant impact on development, learning, and behavior.
Why Are Primitive Reflexes Important?
Each primitive reflex serves a specific purpose in early life. For example, some reflexes help with breastfeeding and oral function, while others support head and neck control or the ability to roll and crawl. As a child grows, these reflexes should become inhibited to make room for more advanced movements and cognitive processing.
When they’re retained, these same reflexes can interfere with things like:
Balance and coordination
Attention and focus
Sensory regulation
Academic performance
Speech and motor development
What Causes Retained Primitive Reflexes?
There are several possible contributing factors that may interfere with proper reflex integration. These include:
C-section delivery
Traumatic or assisted birth
Limited tummy time in infancy
Skipping or delaying developmental milestones (e.g., crawling)
Early walking without foundational motor development
Traumatic brain injury or concussion
(SEO addition: These can all be red flags when assessing nervous system development in children.)
What Does Reflex Retention Look Like?
Signs of retained primitive reflexes vary by child and reflex type. Some common symptoms include:
Poor posture or coordination
Clumsiness or delayed motor skills
Sensory sensitivity or avoidance
Emotional regulation difficulties
ADHD-like symptoms or difficulty focusing
Learning delays
Speech and language delays
Difficulty with fine motor skills
Bedwetting beyond age 5
If your child displays several of these signs, a retained reflex could be contributing to their challenges.
What Does the Research Say?
Studies have shown clear connections between retained primitive reflexes and neurological development:
A 2016 study found that “Retained primitive reflexes can disturb natural development and involve difficulties in social, educational, and psychomotor development.”
(Gieysztor, E. et al.)
A 2021 study linked ADHD symptoms in both girls and boys to disinhibition of primitive reflexes, suggesting specific neurological mechanisms are involved.
(Bob, P. et al., Frontiers in Psychiatry)
How Reflex Integration Works
The most effective way to support reflex integration is movement—intentional, developmentally supportive movement that engages the brain and body.
In addition, families can support their child’s development by:
Encouraging daily floor play (vs. prolonged use of “containers” like bouncers or seats)
Limiting screen time
Spending time outdoors
Supporting sleep, hydration, and nutrient-dense meals
Addressing oral function early
Observing sensory-seeking behaviors and responding proactively
(SEO addition: These daily habits are often overlooked but play a key role in nervous system regulation and motor planning.)
How Nurture 360 Can Help
Dr. Jaclyn Bastien is trained in assessing and addressing retained primitive reflexes. Her approach includes:
A comprehensive health history
Reflex testing through gentle movement patterns
A custom plan of home exercises and therapeutic activities to support brain-body integration
If needed, she may also collaborate with other providers to ensure your child receives holistic support.
Final Thoughts
Retained primitive reflexes are often an unrecognized cause of developmental challenges in children. They may be easy to miss—but once identified, they can be addressed through gentle, consistent movement and therapeutic support.
If your child struggles with coordination, attention, or regulation and you’re unsure why, exploring reflex retention may offer the missing piece.
