Primitive Reflex Integration

At Therahappy, our Primitive Reflex Integration program is designed to support children in achieving optimal motor and sensory development by addressing retained reflexes that can impact learning, behavior, and coordination. Through targeted, play-based exercises, we help children build a stronger neurological foundation for everyday success.

At Therahappy, primitive reflex integration is one of the core facets of our intensive programs.

We understand the significance that retained primitive reflexes plays in a child’s optimal recovery, wellness, and development. Integrating reflexes with our intensives includes hands on treatment, parent and caregiver education for carryover at home, and a methodical approach to treating what is holding the child back in development and function. We treat integrated reflexes in a variety of kiddos – from severe brain injuries to genetic conditions to developmental delay.

primitive reflexes
sensory processing

What are Primitive Reflexes?

Primitive reflexes are involuntary movements all babies are born with that each serve a unique role in infant survival. These movements become replaced by voluntary, coordinated movements and a series of postural reflexes that are present throughout the lifespan. When primitive reflexes linger longer than they should, they can wreak havoc on development and you may notice your child having difficulties with one or more of these:

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  • Gross motor skills (ex: riding a bike or balancing on one leg)
  • Fine motor coordination (ex: handwriting, completing a task involving both hands like stacking blocks)
  • Visual motor skills (ex: doing a puzzle, tossing ball back and forth)
  • Posture (ex: slouches or leans during handwriting, always seems to need to fidget in chair, or wiggle in seat)
  • Self-esteem (ex: struggles internally due to challenges keeping up with peers on the playground)
  • Sensory processing (ex: hypersensitive OR undersensitive to loud sounds or sudden movement)
  • Self-regulation (ex: difficulty self-calming when upset, or always seems to be in a “fight-or-flight” mode)
  • Bed-wetting after the age of 5

“Poorly integrated reflexes interfere with efficient functioning of the nervous system and can affect balance, coordination, and behavior.”


– Dr. A. Jean Ayres, Sensory Integration and Learning Disorders

Get in Touch

Learn more about how primitive reflex integration might help your child reach their fullest potential

Email us at

hello@therahappy.com