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THIt’s actually a powerful way to test for the Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR) - a primitive reflex that affects balance, coordination, focus, and even posture!
What is the TLR Reflex?
🧠 The TLR is a primitive reflex present at birth that helps babies develop head control and movement. By age 3, it should be fully integrated - but if it’s still active, it can cause:
❌ Poor posture (slouching, W-sitting, or trouble standing still)
❌ Difficulty focusing & sitting still (common in ADHD!)
❌ Struggles with reading, writing, and copying from the board
❌ Poor coordination & balance—leading to clumsiness
❌ Motion sickness & dizziness from movement
How can you tell if the reflex is still active?
Closing the eyes removes visual input, forcing the body to rely on balance and proprioception (body awareness).
If a child sways, falls, or struggles to stay upright, it’s a sign their TLR may still be present - making it harder for them to sit still, focus, and move efficiently.
How do you fix it?
✅ Primitive reflex integration exercises can help “retrain” the brain to improve balance, coordination, and focus.
Try These at Home!
1️⃣ Superman Pose – Have your child lie on their stomach, lift their arms and legs off the floor, and hold for 10-15 seconds. This strengthens core muscles and helps integrate the TLR.
2️⃣ Rocking on Hands & Knees – Encourage slow, controlled rocking back and forth while on all fours to improve balance and body control.
3️⃣ Balance Exercises – Walking heel-to-toe on a straight line or standing on one foot with eyes closed can improve stability and train the brain to rely on proprioception.
We teach you (amongst many, many other things) all about how to identify, test and retain primitive reflexes on our “Whole-Child, Multi-Disciplinary Healing Roadmap” Course.
The modules on primitive reflex integration are taught by two of the world-leading experts in this area:
@drrobertmelillo and @dr.joshmadsen
Learn how you can help ADHD symptoms, focus, and coordination at home AND without expensive therapies, consultations or medication!
Comment “ADHD” to find out more.
@thebrainhealthmovement
