Occupational Therapy
Reflex Integration

in Baton Rouge, LA

Did you know that your child’s primitive reflexes play an important role in your child’s optimal development? If your child is struggling to achieve their developmental milestones, or if they are experiencing sensory processing or learning difficulties, unintegrated primitive reflexes could be the key to unlocking their full potential.

Call us at (225) 767-5032 or reach out to us online to schedule an evaluation and find out how reflex integration therapy can help your child achieve greater success in school and beyond.

What are primitive reflexes?

Primitive reflexes are involuntary automatic motor responses originating in the brainstem present after birth in early child development that facilitate protection and survival. Primitive reflexes serve to protect babies through early infancy. These reflexes are the foundation for motor development and help infants to survive until they are upright and mobile. Primitive reflexes are expected to fully integrate in the first two years of life and go on to support higher order thinking and developmental skills.

What Is Reflex Integration Therapy?

Reflex integration is an incredible therapy designed to address the most fundamental aspect of a child’s development, their primitive reflexes. These automatic movements are essential for early survival and development but can sometimes persist beyond the typical timeframe. When that happens, it can impact a child’s overall development and lead to delays in physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Through specialized exercises and activities, our therapy team can help children properly integrate their primitive reflexes so that these reflexes are able to support higher order thinking and abilities. This means that instead of being an automatic or involuntary response, the child will be in control of their body’s actions. This helps children become more able to develop the essential skills they need for success in all areas of life.

Why Do Reflexes Need to Be Integrated?

A baby’s reflexes help them develop and learn about the world around them. But if these reflexes don’t integrate (or come under the child’s own control), it can lead to challenges later in life. In fact, a lack of integration leads to inefficient or dysfunctional reflex responses that not only drain energy away from learning but also impede healthy development.

Delays in reflex development or skipping any phase of the developmental process affects the formation of future skills. Developmental achievement reaches a plateau because nerve networks necessary for progress have not developed. Sometimes this is not as obvious until the expectations for the child’s development reach a tipping point where compensations are rendered unreliable in situations of stress or unexpected transition.

For example, the Moro reflex, often referred to as the “startle reflex,” is crucial for a baby’s survival response. However, if it persists into childhood, it can lead to heightened sensitivity and difficulty focusing. Our reflex integration program targets such reflexes to provide a foundation for improved sensory processing and overall development.

How We Integrate Reflexes at Dynamic Therapy Specialists

Our team at Dynamic Therapy Specialists uses the Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI) Program, a scientifically grounded and holistic approach to reflex integration. This program is designed to help children achieve their developmental goals by systematically addressing unintegrated reflexes.

In simple terms, MNRI involves a series of exercises and activities that simulate the reflex motor pattern and encourage the brain to reorganize and mature. Through gentle and targeted interventions, our experienced therapists guide your child towards improved motor coordination, emotional regulation, and cognitive abilities.

The Benefits of Reflex Integration Therapy

Our reflex integration program is designed to empower your child with the foundational skills they need to thrive in various aspects of life. Through reflex integration therapy, your child can achieve incredible benefits such as:

 

  • Improved coordination and balance
  • Better control over emotional responses
  • Increased focus and attention
  • Improved fine and gross motor skills
  • Stronger cognitive skills for academic success

Frequently Asked Questions about Pediatric Reflex Integration Therapy

Here are some answers to common questions that parents have about pediatric reflex integration therapy. If you have a question that isn’t listed here, feel free to give us a call at (225) 767-5032 and our team will be happy to help.

How do I know if my child needs reflex integration therapy?

If your child is experiencing challenges in areas such as motor skills, coordination, attention, or emotional regulation, they may benefit from reflex integration therapy. A comprehensive assessment by our qualified therapists will help determine the specific needs for your child.

 

Is reflex integration therapy suitable for all children?

Reflex integration therapy is beneficial for children of various ages and developmental stages. It can be particularly helpful for toddlers and young children experiencing challenges in motor coordination, sensory processing, attention, and emotional regulation.

 

Are the exercises involved in reflex integration therapy safe for my child?

Yes, the exercises used in reflex integration therapy are safe. They are designed to be gentle and non-invasive, and our expert therapists tailor activities to the individual needs and comfort level of each child.

 

How long does it take to see results from reflex integration therapy?

The timeline for seeing results varies for each child. Some may show improvements early on, while others may require more time. Consistency and adherence to the therapy plan plays a significant role in achieving positive outcomes.

Schedule An Evaluation Today

Find out how reflex integration can help your child achieve their developmental milestones for more independence and confidence in life. Call us at (225) 767-5032 or fill out the form below to get started. Together, we can give your child the tools they need for a successful future.

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