• ATNR & STNR: The Learning Reflexes

    Have you ever noticed how a baby’s movements seem almost instinctive? These early motions are more than just adorable – they’re primitive reflexes hard at work, guiding development during the first months of life.

    Among these reflexes, the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) and the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) play important roles in laying the groundwork for movement and motor skills. These reflexes help babies grow and prepare for activities like crawling, sitting, and eventually walking. Learning about these vital reflexes provides insight into how infants progress and thrive at every stage of their early development.

    In this article, we’ll explore ATNR and STNR reflexes, how they impact learning and development, signs that they may still be present in older children, and effective ways to support their integration. Let’s unpack this topic to understand the complexities of primitive reflexes.

    ATNR and STNR reflexes demonstration with a child in Houston, TX

    What Are Primitive Reflexes?

    Ever wonder how infants seem pre-programmed with certain movements from the start? Primitive reflexes in children are those early, involuntary movement patterns that develop before birth to help newborns survive and grow. These reflexes play a crucial role in foundational development, paving the way for skills like balance, coordination, and posture. Think of primitive reflexes as nature’s way of giving infants a head start.

    Typically, primitive reflexes fade away – or integrate – within the first year or two of life, allowing more advanced motor skills and learning abilities to form. If integration doesn’t occur as expected, higher-level skill development may require extra support to stimulate progression.

    What Is ATNR (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)?

    The ATNR reflex begins developing at 18 weeks in utero, is present at birth, and typically integrates by six months of age. When an infant turns their head to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend while the opposite side’s limbs bend.

    This reflex plays a vital role in early motor skill development and supports movements needed during the birthing process. Research highlights the ATNR reflex as a key factor in learning and attention, making ATNR reflex integration essential for foundational developmental skills.

    What Is STNR (Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)?

    The STNR reflex begins developing around six months of age and is typically integrated by 9 to 11 months. This reflex helps babies transition into crawling by allowing them to separate upper and lower body movements. When a baby is on hands and knees, lifting the head will straighten the arms and bend the legs, while lowering the head results in bent arms and straightened legs.

    The STNR strengthens neck and back muscles, supports posture, and helps develop vision skills, hand-eye coordination, and a sense of balance, making proper STNR reflex integration fundamental.

    Why Are ATNR & STNR Important for Learning & Development?

    As kids grow, their brains and bodies build important connections that shape how they see and interact with the world. Reflexes like ATNR and STNR are the natural, hidden mechanisms responsible for creating these critical foundations. They support key areas of development crucial for success in school and everyday activities.

    If these reflexes are retained beyond the typical integration period, areas like fine motor skills, gross motor skill development, and even focus can be affected. Addressing these reflexes through targeted ATNR and STNR integration exercises can enhance natural progression in skills related to learning, physical activity, and self-regulation.

    Signs That ATNR & STNR May Be Present in Older Children

    When ATNR and STNR reflexes don’t fully integrate, children may experience challenges in various areas of their development. These signs can be observed in physical abilities, behavior, learning, and communication skills, highlighting the importance of seeking professional care to address these concerns.

    Physical Signs

    • Poor posture or trouble keeping their back straight
    • Weak upper body strength, making activities like pushing or pulling difficult
    • Preference for sitting in a W-position or wrapping legs around a chair for support
    • Leaning over a book or supporting the head with a hand when reading or writing
    • Limited or absent crawling during early development
    • Difficulty focusing vision at different distances, which can make reading harder
    • Challenges with coordination when tracking or catching a moving ball

    Behavioral and Learning Signs

    • Struggles with crossing the midline, affecting writing and other tasks
    • Balance issues when turning the head to the side
    • Problems learning to ride a bike or similar motor skills
    • Pressing too hard with a pen or pencil, leading to slow or difficult handwriting
    • Challenges with reading, spelling, or math skills that require focus or precision
    • Confusion about which hand to use for tasks

    Speech and Communication Signs

    • Delays in speech clarity or fluency
    • Difficulty organizing thoughts when speaking
    • Trouble maintaining steady eye contact during conversations

    How to Support the Integration of ATNR and STNR

    Multisensory activities can assist in integrating retained primitive reflexes. Working with an occupational therapist is highly recommended, but you can also try simple activities at home to support your child.

    • Crawling Exercises
      Crawling activities like navigating tunnels or practicing animal walks are excellent for promoting reflex integration. These movements encourage arm and leg coordination while strengthening core and limb muscles.
    • Climbing Activities
      Climbing on playgrounds or traversing rock walls builds strength and encourages the coordination of both sides of the body. These activities also engage focus and motor planning skills.
    • Ball Games
      Rolling, bouncing, or throwing a ball improves hand-eye coordination and enhances visual tracking. Start with a larger ball to make these activities easier and gradually adjust as skills improve.
    • Superman Pose
      This pose is done by lying on the stomach and lifting both arms and legs off the ground simultaneously while keeping them straight. Holding this static position strengthens muscles and helps develop reflexes.
    • Cat-Cow Stretch
      The cat-cow stretch from yoga is helpful for STNR integration. On all fours, arch the back while looking down, then curve the back while looking upward. Perform this movement slowly for maximum benefit.
    • Obstacle Courses
      Creating obstacle courses with tunnels, cushions, or chairs promotes crawling, climbing, and body awareness. These are simple and fun and support bilateral integration and improve physical coordination.

    When Should You Be Concerned About Retained Reflexes?

    Sometimes, small developmental delays can feel like just a part of growing up, but if you’re noticing consistent struggles with movement, focus, or coordination, it may be worth exploring whether primitive reflexes have been retained in your child. Speaking with your pediatrician is a great first step – they may recommend an evaluation by an occupational therapist.

    At Daisy Kids Care in Houston, TX, our skilled therapists specialize in primitive reflex integration techniques. We work with children and families throughout the DFW area to build essential skills for everyday success. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child achieve milestones and thrive in every aspect of life.