As a certified Masgutova Neuro-Sensorimotor Reflex Integration therapist at Pediatrilla, I understand the crucial role that reflexes play in a child’s early development. One such reflex that significantly impacts motor development is the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR). This reflex is essential in helping establish postural control and visual focus during the early stages of a child’s growth. However, if the STNR persists beyond the typical developmental timeline, it can result in a variety of challenges for your child.
What is the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)?
The STNR is a primitive reflex that usually emerges in infancy and plays an important role in a child’s ability to coordinate head and body movements. It typically integrates around 9 to 12 months of age. When a child’s head moves forward or backward, the reflex causes changes in the body’s posture: bending the head forward typically causes the arms to bend and the legs to extend, while tilting the head back causes the arms to extend and the legs to bend. This reflex helps the child gain control over posture and begins to support complex motor movements later on when they occur, like crawling and sitting.
Why is it Important?
The integration of the STNR allows a child to develop the motor skills necessary for more advanced movements such as sitting upright, crawling, and later on, activities like walking and writing. This reflex helps set the foundation for better coordination, balance, and overall body control. These skills are essential for effective learning and participation in daily activities.
What Happens if the STNR Persists?
If the STNR doesn’t integrate as it should, it can lead to delays in your child’s motor development. Parents might notice that their child has difficulty in simple tasks like:
ICrawling: Since crawling is one of the first major milestones where the STNR should be integrated, a persistent reflex can affect a child’s ability to move efficiently.
Sitting: Children who have not fully integrated this reflex may struggle to maintain a stable sitting posture, often slumping or struggling with balance.
Writing: The inability to control posture and hand-eye coordination may lead to challenges when writing or using a pencil, as well as difficulty maintaining focus on a task.
If you notice that your child is having difficulty in these areas or seems to be struggling with coordination and balance, it might be a sign that the STNR has not fully integrated. In this case, seeking the guidance of a trained therapist can make a significant difference.
How Can Pediatrilla Help?
At Pediatrilla, we specialize in Masgutova Neuro-Sensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI) therapy, which is designed to help children integrate primitive reflexes like the STNR and improve their motor skills. Through targeted therapeutic techniques, we can assist your child in overcoming these developmental challenges, leading to improved motor coordination, balance, and overall physical and cognitive development.
If your child is experiencing difficulties with movement, coordination, or other motor skills, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our expert team at Pediatrilla is here to support your child’s developmental journey, ensuring they have the foundation they need for successful learning and growth.