Archaic Reflexes

What are a archaic reflexes?

Infants come into the world with primitive (archaic) reflexes in order to be able to survive.

These are automatic, stereotypical movements controlled by the brainstem. They must have a limited lifespan. Non-integration after several months is a sign of structural weakness or immaturity of the central nervous system.

These reflexes are put in place during life in utero.

Take the example of the non-integration of the Moro Reflex. The child will have difficulty concentrating because he will not be able to ignore peripheral visual stimulation. He is a child who is hyper-vigilant. Having friends around him who move will tend to dissipate him and he will have difficulty concentrating when looking at the board. You will say that he is a distracted child or that he cannot concentrate ... This can be a clue to explain the hyperactivity of a child.

This is why I invite you to take stock of archaic reflexes for your children (and even for us adults) in order to be sure that all the reflexes are well integrated and allow your child to follow a schooling without problems.

Which person to go see? Any therapist who has trained in archaic reflexes such as at the IMP for example.

Bibliography The great book of reflexes by Sally Goddard Blythe

Diane Hissung