DiscoverAll Things Sensory by Harkla#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom
#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom

#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom

Update: 2025-11-19
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Description

Teachers and therapists often see students struggling with focus, posture, handwriting, or behavior but the root cause might not be what you think. Retained primitive reflexes can have a huge impact in the classroom. đź“š

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • What primitive reflexes are and why they matter

  • How retained reflexes show up in school settings

  • Simple classroom strategies to support students

  • Why movement breaks and alternative seating make a difference

Thanks for tuning in đź©· If this episode was helpful, share it with a teacher or therapist who could use these strategies!

LINKS

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ 

Harkla Website 

https://harkla.co/ 

Harkla YouTube

​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily 

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ 

Harkla Digital Courses

https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

Pyramid of Learning

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Freebie-_Pyramid_of_Learning.pdf?v=1758648557 

Tessa’s Interview

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg 

Sensory Activity Cards

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards 

Sensory Dice

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice 

Sensory Sticks 

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks 

Classroom Course 

https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training 

Primitive Reflex Course
https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course

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#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom

#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC & Jessica Hill, COTA/L