What Are Primitive Reflexes and How Do They Impact Vision and ADHD?

“Movement drives brain development, and very rarely do you see movement when there is a screen involved.”

Primitive reflexes play a critical role in child development, but what happens when they don’t integrate as expected? In this episode, we’re joined by pediatric occupational therapist and ADHD specialist Jenna Downs from Stronger Roots Therapy. Together, we explore how these early reflexes shape motor, sensory, and visual development—and how their persistence can mimic or worsen symptoms often linked to ADHD, learning difficulties, and vision challenges.

From crawling and handwriting struggles to posture, screen time, and the impact of retained reflexes on focus and reading, Jenna breaks down what parents and educators should know. Most importantly, she shares practical strategies and hope for families navigating these concerns, highlighting the power of neuroplasticity and early interventions.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your child’s fidgeting, difficulty concentrating, or visual struggles might have deeper developmental roots, this conversation will open your eyes to new possibilities for growth and support.

(00:00) Intro
(00:38) Meet Jenna Downs: Pediatric Occupational Therapist
(02:22) Nature’s role in growth
(03:10) The impact of screen time
(04:23) What's happening to handwriting skills?
(08:20) Why risk-taking matters
(11:40) Social skills and the COVID-19 effect
(13:11) Primitive reflexes explained
(16:27) The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex
(21:26) What is proprioceptive feedback?
(22:23) Building core strength: Athleticism vs. Core Stability
(25:11) 4D Built to Read Digital Program
(26:06) ADHD and retained reflexes - The crawling connection
(30:27) Addressing retained reflexes
(32:53) Parental role in neuroplasticity
(38:43) Resources

RESOURCES

• Follow strongerrootstherapy
• Visit strongerrootstherapy.com
• Check out harkla.co

Check out our Digital Programs

• 4D Built for Life
• Start your FREE TRIAL today 4D Built to Read Digital Program
• Concussion Recovery
• Built to Drive

Follow us at 4D Vision Gym on Facebook and Instagram @4dvisiongymvt for the latest news and updates. DM us if you have any Vision Therapy related questions - you may hear the answer in a future episode!

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