Primitive Reflexes: a primer
A baby’s development in utero includes some responses to stimuli that are entirely involuntary. These responses are called Primitive Reflexes. They are key to the later development of muscle control (including the head), as well as preparing the baby for birth. Then, as the newborn grows, these reflexes also enable the child to take in more of his surroundings, to focus on the larger world, and, eventually, to progress to holding the head up, rolling over, crawling, standing, and walking.
Where development is normal, which is to say unaffected by outside hindrances like drug interaction or disease, these reflexes fade as voluntary processes develop. Most disappear by the time a child is a year or so old. By then those voluntary movements and muscle control override them. However, where there are experiences that hinder this development, retention of these reflexes can impact later success in the classroom and on the playing field. Lack of movement in utero, spending too much time in car seats/jumpers (where movement is restricted), birth trauma or other injury can also contribute.
So when we ask, as part of your new patient paperwork, detailed questions about everything from birth weight to family history, we’re on the lookout for some of these markers which may be impacting your student’s performance, self-esteem and prognosis.
We’re going to take a closer look at these Primitive Reflexes to offer you an insight into how your child’s vision issues are impacted and how we can work together to overcome them. Stay tuned.
