Primitive Reflex Integration Activity Cards: Exercises for Occupational Therapy

Description

Children with learning disabilities have a significantly higher level of primitive retained reflexes compared to other children (Hickey & Feldhacker, 2021).

When we think of reflexes, we may envision being tapped on the knee at the doctor’s office, or yanking our hand away from a hot stove. These reflexes allow our bodies and brains to complete motor movements without having to consciously think about it.

Primitive reflexes are named for the part of the brain in which they originate – the primitive brain (or brainstem). In typically developing children, these reflexes are automatically demonstrated when they are presented with specific stimuli.

Each reflex serves a developmental or evolutionary purpose. However, if integration does not occur, a list of involuntary symptoms that impact the trajectory of development may persist.

This resource was created by two pediatric occupational therapists as a playful way to incorporate reflex integration exercises into clinic home or school routines!

This download includes:

• ATNR: 5 integrative activity cards
• Spinal Galant: 2 integrative activity cards
• Moro: 2 integrative activity cards
• STNR: 2 integrative activity cards
• TLR: 2 integrative activity cards
• Instructions for printing