Foundation One
Primitive Reflexes
The earliest movement patterns that organize the nervous system for survival and learning.
Primitive reflexes are the earliest movement patterns of human development. They emerge in utero, are present at birth, and integrate — or are supposed to integrate — in the first year of life. Each reflex has a job, and once it has done it, the nervous system moves on to higher-order skills.
When a reflex stays active past its developmental window, it keeps the brain in a reactive state. The system that should be available for learning is still busy doing the work of survival.
The Reflexes We Work With
Click any reflex to learn more.
Reflex
Balance
The most crucial primitive reflex. Static and dynamic.
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Moro Reflex
The startle response. Building block of every other reflex.
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Spinal Galant Reflex
Hip and bladder development. Tied to fidgeting.
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Asymmetric Tonic Neck (ATNR)
The fencing pose. Hand-eye and crossing the midline.
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Symmetric Tonic Neck (STNR)
The "learning reflex." Differentiates upper and lower body.
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Tonic Labyrinthine (TLR)
Spatial awareness, posture, balance.
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Palmar Reflex
The grasp reflex. Foundation of fine motor control.
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