The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) is another key primitive reflex, the main purpose of which is to assist a baby during the birth process. It helps the baby to slow down limb movements in order to move successfully through the birth passage.
What it looks like: This reflex is usually seen within the first 3 months of life. To be honest, it kind of looks like your baby is fencing! If your bub is lying on their back and turns their head to the left or right, this causes the arm and leg on one side to extend while the other arm and leg flex. On guard!
If this reflex is retained beyond 6 months it can cause a lot of difficulties for little ones. For me, the ATNR is one of the most easily identifiable retained reflexes. It is easy to see this in action during assessments as it makes it really hard for kids to cross their midline (for example, when turning a skipping rope and switching hands from left hand to right hand). In movement activities involving crossing the midline it almost seems as if there is an invisible wall in the middle of their body. This also affects tracking from left to right with the eyes – which can affect reading and writing (as this involves scanning from left to right in Western culture).
If your baby doesn’t crawl, it’s very possible that they have a retained ATNR, as crawling involves crossing the midline. Thankfully, there are plenty of physical activities and games that can be taught to integrate this reflex. Kinesiologists and occupational therapists can also provide stretches and exercises. Please feel free to get in touch if you want to learn more.
