Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy

At On The Ball, we specialize in supporting children’s growth and development—right from the foundational building blocks. One of the key areas we focus on is primitive reflex integration, a gentle and effective therapy that helps children overcome developmental delays related to retained reflexes.

What Are Primitive Reflexes?

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements that babies are born with—like the startle reflex or the grasp reflex. These reflexes are essential for early survival, but they are meant to disappear (or “integrate”) as the child grows and their brain matures.

If these reflexes persist past infancy, they can interfere with a child’s ability to develop important skills like coordination, balance, attention, and emotional regulation. Common signs of retained reflexes might include:

• Poor posture or clumsiness
• Difficulty sitting still or focusing
• Delayed motor milestones
• Sensory sensitivities
• Learning or behavioural challenges

How We Help

Our experienced occupational therapists and physiotherapists are trained to assess for retained primitive reflexes and design fun, play-based movement programs to help integrate them. Through these activities, we support your child’s brain and body to work together more efficiently—unlocking their full developmental potential.

Benefits of Primitive Reflex Integration:

• Improved coordination and motor planning
• Better balance and posture
• Enhanced attention and self-regulation
• Increased confidence in school and play
• Support for sensory processing and emotional control

What to Expect

Every child is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your child’s needs and goals before beginning treatment. After a thorough assessment, we create a personalized plan that may include:

• Specific reflex integration exercises
• Sensory and movement-based therapy
• Playful and age-appropriate activities
• Home strategies to support ongoing progress

Our goal is to make therapy enjoyable and empowering for your child—so they look forward to each session and gain real-life benefits from their progress.

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