BrainAhead and Research Primitive Reflexes

Primitive Reflexes

Addressing retained primitive reflexes could be a missed step in helping children with attention and behavior challenges in the classroom.

BrainAhead Connection:

The Developmental Foundations course is designed to address retained primitive reflexes in children. It guides students step by step through the proper physical and postural developmental stages that have become more commonly skipped in children. This lays the foundation for better learning and behaviour.

References

Konicarova, J., & Bob, P. (2012). Retained primitive reflexes and ADHD in children. Activitas Nervosa Superior, 54(3-4), 135-138.

Melillo, R., Leisman, G., Mualem, R., Ornai, A., & Carmeli, E. (2020). Persistent childhood primitive reflex reduction effects on cognitive, sensorimotor, and academic performance in ADHD. Frontiers in Public Health, 8, 431835-431835.


Primitive reflexes are reflexes that are present during the earliest stages of life and aid in birth and survival. In normal development as the brain is becoming more complex, these reflexes would be dampened and no longer present around age 1; however, if they are retained it can lead to a number of challenges.

BrainAhead Connection:

The Developmental Foundations course guides students through specific and slow movements designed to integrate any primitive reflexes that may be retained. This should allow for less barriers as children embark on higher levels of learning and cognition.

References:

Goddard Blythe, S. (1996). A teacher’s window into the child’s mind and papers from the institute for neuro-physiological psychology. Fern Ridge Press.

Goddard Blythe, S. (2014). Neuromotor immaturity in children and adults: The INPP screening test for clinicians and health practitioners. Wiley-Blackwell.

Goddard, S. (2002). Reflexes, learning and behavior: A window into the child’s mind. Fern Ridge Press.

Discover Next Research

Sign up for our Newsletter

Keep up to date with the best brain-boosting news, stories, promotions and tips!

BrainAhead
Still have Questions?
Contact Us FAQ