Primitive Reflexes and How Occupational Therapists Can Help

When babies are born, they come equipped with a set of automatic movements called primitive reflexes. These reflexes are nature’s way of helping infants survive and begin to interact with the world. For example:

• Moro reflex (startle reflex): helps infants respond to sudden noises or movement.

• Rooting reflex: helps babies find food by turning their head toward touch near their mouth.

• Palmar grasp reflex: makes tiny hands close around your finger when you touch their palm.

These reflexes are meant to fade away as a child grows, typically within the first year of life. As the brain develops, voluntary motor skills take over.

When Reflexes Don’t Integrate

Sometimes, primitive reflexes stick around longer than expected. When that happens, kids may experience challenges like:

• Difficulty with balance and coordination

• Trouble sitting still or maintaining posture

• Challenges with handwriting or fine motor skills

• Sensitivity to sights, sounds, or movement

• Struggles with attention and self-regulation

It’s not about anything parents “did wrong”—sometimes reflexes just need extra support to fully integrate.

How OTs Can Help

Occupational therapists are trained to recognize retained reflexes and create play-based, movement-focused activities to support integration.An OT might use:

• Balance and core exercises to strengthen posture and coordination

• Crossing midline activities (like crawling, ball games, or rhythmic movements) to support brain-body communication

• Sensory play to help regulate the nervous system

• Fine motor practice that builds hand-eye coordination and handwriting skills

Through consistent, fun activities, OTs help kids’ nervous systems “rewire” so they can move, learn, and focus more easily.

👉 If you’ve noticed your child struggling with motor skills, coordination, or attention, an OT can help assess whether retained reflexes may be playing a role. Early support makes a big difference!