Primitive Reflexes and

Reactions

Dr Shakir
Parachute Reaction
This develops in the 6th month
Test position
 Child is held in a horizontal position, move him downwards
suddenly. He reacts by extending his arms forward to protect his
head.
Saving Reaction
As he gets stronger he can take weight through his arms to
save self
Forward and sideways develop in the 7th month
Backward reaction starts from the 8th months
Test in sitting push the child forwards, sideways &
backwards
Righting Reactions
These are responsible for development of postural
control in positions and ability to change
positions.
They are the adaptation of the child’s body when
there is a change in position in space
There are two types
Optical (eye) This works when the movement of body is
very big.
Labyrinth (ear) Do not need visual. It stabilises your
body in a specific position. It is our effort to keep our
eyes in a horizontal position at all times
Balance Reactions
Once righting reactions are integrated into the
child’s postural control then balance reactions
develop
Upper limb reactions already mentioned
They develop one stage behind gross motor
development
Also seen in standing when you are pushed, you
see your balance reactions as you take a step,
forwards, backwards or sideways to prevent falling.