How Primitive Reflexes Affect Eye Movement and Learning: What You Need to Know
Did you know that certain reflexes present in babies can affect a child’s ability to read and focus later in life? A recent study published in the Journal of Eye Movement Research sheds light on how retained primitive reflexes can impact eye movements and visual skills.
What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are automatic movements controlled by the brainstem that help newborns with basic survival tasks, like sucking and grasping. These reflexes usually disappear as the brain matures, but in some cases, they can persist beyond infancy. When this happens, it can disrupt the development of motor skills, balance, coordination, and, importantly, vision.
The Study
Researchers examined children aged 4 to 16 years to see how these retained reflexes affect eye movements. They focused on four reflexes:
Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)
Symmetric Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)
Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)
Moro Reflex
The study used a device called the Visagraph™ III to measure eye movements before and after therapy designed to inhibit these reflexes.
Key Findings
The results were surprising and very positive:
Improved Eye Control: After reflex inhibition therapy, children showed better control over their eye movements. This included fewer unnecessary eye jumps (saccades) and improved fixation (the ability to keep their eyes steady on a target).
Better Eye Balance: The therapy improved balance between the two eyes, making it easier for kids to track and read text smoothly.
Reduced Primitive Reflexes: All four reflexes were significantly reduced, helping kids achieve more controlled and stable eye movements.
Why This Matters for Learning
Reading and other academic activities require precise eye movements and focus. When primitive reflexes are still active, they can disrupt these skills, making it harder for children to read fluently and pay attention. By integrating these reflexes, the brain is better able to support complex visual tasks, which can lead to improvements in reading speed and comprehension.
How This Therapy Can Help
This type of therapy can be a game-changer for kids with learning difficulties related to vision. By addressing the root cause—retained reflexes—rather than just treating the symptoms, therapists can help children improve their visual performance and overall academic skills.
What’s Next?
The study suggests that more research is needed to see if these benefits continue as children grow older or if they can be applied to adults as well. But for now, it’s clear that working on integrating these reflexes can make a big difference for children struggling with vision-related learning issues.
Final Thoughts
If your child is having trouble with reading or focusing, it might be worth looking into an evaluation for retained primitive reflexes. Addressing these early motor patterns can pave the way for better visual skills and a smoother path to academic success.
If you’re curious about your child’s visual development, consider reaching out to a professional who understands the connection between primitive reflexes and eye movement. To learn more and connect with our team, simply fill out this form!
Domingo-Sanz V. A. (2024). Persistence of primitive reflexes associated with asymmetries in fixation and ocular motility values. Journal of eye movement research, 17(2), 10.16910/jemr.17.2.5. https://doi.org/10.16910/jemr.17.2.5