Reflexes Should Develop from Infancy

A quick response to touching a hot stove would be to quickly move your hand away from it. This is called a reflex, and we have many of these automatic natural reactions within our bodies to keep us safe.

Reflexes have been part of our lives since infancy. All human beings start life with primitive reflexes which eventually fade as our bodies and minds develop. Integration of reflexes is a critical but seldom discussed developmental milestone.

Primitive reflexes help infants with basic survival such as the sucking reflex that helps coordinate between breathing and swallowing. Other primitive reflexes relate to head control and distinguishing between moving the head and moving other parts of the body.

As motor, sensory and cognitive skills develop, these primitive reflexes should give way to higher skills. Most reflexes should be integrated by 22 months. Retaining primitive reflexes can lead to developmental delays and studies have estimated as many as half of school-aged children have retained reflexes that are creating issues.

Some of the factors impacting the lack of integration include less floor time for babies, increased screen time, and lack of exposure to materials. This topic was covered extensively during LCCAA Head Start’s training before school started last month.

Retaining reflexes can create issues for both gross and fine motor development as well as behavior. Some examples:

• Poor posture or decreased balance which can lead to injuries or accidents.

• Lack of coordination creating issues with learning to write or use scissors and, later, learning to read.

• Decreased concentration, attention span leading to behavior issues.

The good news is that with proper therapy these reflexes can become integrated, and the delays minimized.

LCCAA Head Start staff will use what they learned to monitor children in the classroom and stay on the lookout for indications that therapy from one of our partners or simple modifications in our routines may be needed.

If you suspect any developmental issues in your child or would like to learn exercises you can do at home, please contact your child’s teacher. We are your partner in your child’s education, so always share any concerns you may have.