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Every Child Is Born With Reflexes Designed for Survival Long before a baby learns to crawl, stand, or speak, their nervous system is already hard at work. Primitive reflexes are automatic, involuntary movement patterns that emerge during fetal development and infancy. These reflexes are controlled primarily by the brainstem —the oldest and most primitive part of the brain responsible for survival. They serve essential purposes such as: Protecting the infant after birth Assisting with feeding and breastfeeding Helping babies move against gravity Preparing the body for voluntary movement Stimulating normal brain development through sensory experiences These reflexes are not meant to last forever. As the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and frontal lobes mature, higher brain centers gradually inhibit these primitive patterns. This process is known as primitive reflex integration. When reflexes remain active beyond the expected age, it suggests that the nervous system has not fully transitioned from reflexive movement to voluntary, coordinated movement. Rather than indicating laziness or poor behavior, retained primitive reflexes often reflect immature neurological development. Brain Development Is Built Layer by Layer One of the most important concepts in developmental neuroscience is that the brain develops from the bottom up and back-to-front. Development typically follows this sequence: Brainstem Cerebellum Midbrain Basal ganglia Limbic system Cortex Frontal cortex (executive function) Primitive reflexes originate in the brainstem. As these higher centers mature, they suppress primitive reflex activity while allowing more sophisticated movement, balance, emotional regulation, and learning. If primitive reflexes remain active, they continuously send immature motor signals that interfere with the development of higher brain functions. It is similar to trying to build the second floor of a house before the foundation is finished. Why Are Primitive Reflexes So Important? Primitive reflexes are much more than simple movements. They help organize nearly every major neurological system. Proper integration supports: Balance Coordination Vision Eye tracking Posture Muscle tone Emotional regulation Speech development Sensory processing Attention Fine motor skills Gross motor skills Learning readiness When these reflexes persist, children may compensate in countless ways without anyone recognizing the underlying neurological cause. Research Has Found Higher Rates of Retained Reflexes in Neurodevelopmental Disorders A growing body of research has reported associations between retained primitive reflexes and conditions such as: Autism spectrum disorder ADHD Developmental coordination disorder Dyslexia Learning disabilities Speech delay Sensory processing challenges Cerebral palsy Developmental delays Importantly, retained primitive reflexes do not cause autism or ADHD. Instead, they may serve as clinical indicators of delayed or atypical neurological maturation and may contribute to motor, sensory, and behavioral challenges experienced by some children. Common Primitive Reflexes Primitive Reflex Normally Integrated Common Signs if Retained ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Moro Reflex 3–6 months Anxiety, poor emotional regulation, hypersensitivity to sound/light, poor balance ATNR 4–6 months Poor handwriting, crossing midline difficulty, poor crawling, visual tracking problems STNR 9–11 months W-sitting, poor posture, difficulty sitting still, delayed crawling, clumsy movements TLR 2–4 months Poor balance, toe walking, weak core, motion sickness, poor spatial awareness Spinal Galant Reflex 3–9 months Fidgeting, bedwetting, poor attention, scoliosis tendencies, clothing sensitivity Palmar Grasp Reflex 4–6 months Poor pencil grip, weak fine motor skills, delayed handwriting Plantar Grasp Reflex 9–12 months Poor balance, toe walking, awkward gait Rooting Reflex 3–4 months Speech delays, oral sensitivities, picky eating Babkin Reflex 3–4 months Oral motor delays, speech difficulties, feeding challenges Babinski Reflex 12–24 months Delayed walking, abnormal gait if persistent Why Might Primitive Reflexes Be Retained? No single explanation accounts for every child, but several factors are thought to contribute: Prenatal Factors Maternal stress Poor maternal nutrition Inflammation Environmental toxins Certain infections Limited fetal movement Birth Factors Prolonged labor Emergency C-section Vacuum or forceps delivery Prematurity Birth trauma Low oxygen during delivery Early Childhood Factors Limited tummy time Insufficient crawling Recurrent ear infections Chronic inflammation Nutritional deficiencies Excessive screen time replacing movement Sedentary lifestyles Chronic stress Sleep disturbances Neurobiological Factors Researchers also propose that retained reflexes may reflect: Delayed maturation of cortical inhibitory pathways Cerebellar dysfunction affecting motor learning Altered sensory integration Vestibular system dysfunction Reduced neuroplasticity Persistent neuroinflammation Impaired brain network connectivity These mechanisms remain active areas of research, and no single model explains all cases. How Retained Reflexes May Affect Autism and ADHD Many children with autism and ADHD demonstrate difficulties with: Balance Coordination Motor planning Eye movements Emotional regulation Executive functioning Sensory processing Retained primitive reflexes may amplify these challenges by continually activating immature movement patterns and increasing the brain's workload during everyday activities. For example: Retained Moro Reflex May contribute to: Easily startled responses Emotional overwhelm Poor stress tolerance Sensory overload Hypervigilance Retained ATNR May contribute to: Reading difficulties Crossing midline problems Poor handwriting Difficulty using both hands together Retained STNR May contribute to: Constant movement Poor sitting posture Difficulty focusing at a desk Delayed crawling history Retained Spinal Galant May contribute to: Constant fidgeting Clothing sensitivity Bedwetting Difficulty sitting still in school Again, these reflexes are not diagnostic , but they may represent modifiable contributors to functional challenges. Can Primitive Reflexes Be Integrated Later? The encouraging answer is yes. The nervous system remains plastic throughout life. Many clinicians use targeted movement-based interventions to encourage more mature neurological organization. While research is still evolving, clinical studies suggest that structured sensorimotor programs may improve: Balance Coordination Attention Motor planning Reading readiness Emotional regulation Postural control These interventions should ideally be individualized following a comprehensive developmental assessment. Home Exercises That May Support Reflex Integration The following activities are commonly incorporated into developmental movement programs. They are generally low risk and can encourage the sensory and motor experiences that support healthy brain development, but evidence for specific reflex-integration exercises is still emerging. For Moro Reflex Starfish exercise Controlled diaphragmatic breathing Child's Pose Slow rocking Gentle vestibular activities For ATNR Cross crawls Bear crawls Crawling obstacle courses Windmill reaches Midline crossing games For STNR Cat-Cow exercise Quadruped rocking Crawling through tunnels Crab walks Wheelbarrow walks For TLR Superman holds Log rolls Balance beam walking Rolling games Prone extension activities For Spinal Galant Snow angels Trunk rotation exercises Bird-Dog Gentle foam rolling along the paraspinal muscles Core strengthening Universal Developmental Activities Children benefit from abundant opportunities for natural movement, including: Crawling Climbing Swinging Jumping Hanging Balance beam activities Playing barefoot on uneven surfaces Dance Martial arts Swimming Obstacle courses These experiences stimulate the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, and visual systems that help organize the developing brain. A Whole-Child Approach Primitive reflex integration should never be viewed in isolation. Optimal neurodevelopment also depends on: High-quality sleep Adequate protein intake Omega-3 fatty acids Iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and B vitamins when appropriate Healthy gut microbiome Daily outdoor play Reduced chronic stress Supportive relationships Physical activity Sensory-rich experiences Age-appropriate challenges that promote neuroplasticity When needed, children may also benefit from coordinated care involving pediatricians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, developmental specialists, chiropractors with pediatric and neurological training, or other qualified clinicians. The Bottom Line Primitive reflexes are among the earliest building blocks of human development. They are essential for survival in infancy, but they are intended to fade as the brain matures and voluntary movement takes over. When these reflexes persist, they may signal delayed neurological maturation and can be associated with challenges in movement, learning, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. While retained reflexes are not the cause of autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions , they may contribute to functional difficulties and provide valuable clues during a comprehensive developmental assessment. Supporting reflex integration through purposeful movement, active play, and individualized rehabilitation may help some children improve motor control, coordination, and overall function. Combined with good nutrition, restorative sleep, a healthy gut, and a nurturing environment, these strategies can support the remarkable capacity of the developing brain to adapt and grow. 

The Gut-Brain Connection in Kids: How Nutrition, the Microbiome, and the Nervous System Shape Brain Development

When most people think about their health, they focus on symptoms. Fatigue, hormone imbalances, digestive issues, brain fog, anxiety, or recurring illness often seem like separate problems. But what if many of these challenges were connected by one common denominator? Your nervous system. The nervous system is the master control system of the body. It coordinates communication between your brain, immune system, hormones, organs, muscles, and every cell in your body. When it is balanced and adaptable, your body can heal, recover, and thrive. When it becomes overwhelmed by chronic stress, injuries, inflammation, poor sleep, or emotional strain, the body shifts into survival mode. The Stress Response and Its Impact on Health Your body was designed to handle short bursts of stress. However, modern life often keeps us in a constant state of fight-or-flight. When your nervous system is stuck in survival mode: Stress hormones like cortisol remain elevated. Immune function becomes dysregulated. Blood sugar becomes less stable. Sleep quality declines. Digestion slows down. Energy production becomes less efficient. Hormone balance suffers. Over time, this can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, burnout, brain fog, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and difficulty recovering from illness or injury. How Nervous System Regulation Supports Healing A regulated nervous system shifts the body into a state known as "rest, digest, and repair." In this state: The immune system can respond appropriately rather than overreacting. Hormones can communicate more effectively. Digestion and nutrient absorption improve. Inflammation decreases. Sleep becomes deeper and more restorative. Cellular energy production increases. In other words, healing becomes possible. 5 Simple Ways to Reset Your Nervous System The good news is that you can begin supporting your nervous system today. 1. Prioritize Breathwork Slow, controlled breathing signals safety to the brain. Try this: Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds. Exhale slowly for 6-8 seconds. Repeat for 5 minutes. 2. Get Morning Sunlight Exposure to natural sunlight within the first hour of waking helps regulate your circadian rhythm, cortisol patterns, and energy levels throughout the day. Aim for 5-15 minutes outdoors each morning. 3. Stabilize Blood Sugar Blood sugar fluctuations create stress on the nervous system. Focus on: Protein-rich breakfasts. Healthy fats. Fiber-rich vegetables. Limiting excess sugar and processed foods. 4. Move Your Body Daily Movement is one of the fastest ways to regulate the nervous system. Walking, strength training, yoga, balance exercises, and short bursts of high-intensity exercise can all improve nervous system resilience. 5. Improve Sleep Hygiene Sleep is when the brain and nervous system repair and reset. Start with: Consistent sleep and wake times. Reducing blue light exposure before bed. Keeping your bedroom cool and dark. Avoiding caffeine late in the day. The Bottom Line Your body is designed to heal, but healing happens most effectively when the nervous system feels safe and supported. If you've been struggling with fatigue, hormone imbalances, chronic stress, immune challenges, or simply feeling stuck in survival mode, it may be time to look beyond symptoms and focus on the system that controls them all. When you regulate the nervous system, you create the foundation for better energy, balanced hormones, a stronger immune system, and a healthier, more resilient life. At High Vibe Living Chiropractic, our mission is simple: Regulate. Heal. Thrive. Because true healing starts with the nervous system.

Many times, people are led to believe that they must find some extravagant meaning or greater purpose in their life. Sometimes, it is beneficial to take a step back. Take a breath, and realize that a much simpler, less daunting approach is not only easier on the mind but can lead to that desired destination. It’s great to have big visions, dreams, and aspirations; but what are the smaller steps along your journey that will help shape you into your ideal self and connect you to your higher purpose. Focus on the little things. There is beauty in simplicity. It’s not going to look or feel the same for everyone and that’s perfectly fine. It can be as easy as setting an intention first thing in the morning to have as an anchor throughout your day. This intention could be a certain feeling you want to evoke within yourself, or a task you want to direct your energy towards that day. This task can relate to doing things for yourself and others. For example, maybe you want to give someone an unsolicited compliment or show your appreciation for a loved one, or be more present with your own thoughts, feelings, and emotions. By shifting your daily focus to this certain micro-goal, you may experience more joy and passion which can guide you towards your ultimate purpose in life. Take small steps and celebrate the little wins and notice how your bodymind reacts and how you feel more aligned with your spirit. By taking a step back and focusing on simplicity (while not completely forgetting the big picture), you will feel more fulfilled and empowered to share your unique gifts and experiences with others!