The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) is a crucial reflex present at birth, helping with early movements and visual tracking. Ideally, it integrates by 6 months, but if retained, it can affect hand-eye coordination, reading, writing, and even balance. Children with an unintegrated ATNR may struggle with crossing midline, tracking objects, or coordinating both sides of their body. The good news? Play-based activities can support ATNR integration in a fun and natural way! #ThespeechclinicDubai

The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) is closely linked to dyslexia due to its impact on a child’s development. When the ATNR is retained, it can disrupt motor skills and coordination, which are crucial for reading and writing. It has huge impact on learning. Signs of Retention/Impact on ADLs are noticed : • Decreased hand-eye coordination • Poor handwriting • Uncoordinated gait • Poor balance • Poor visual-motor skills and tracking • Problems with math and reading • Difficulty crossing midl

Primitive reflexes: we have to integrate them! Let’s talk about the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex. The ATNR emerges 18 weeks in utero and diminishes completely 3–9 months after birth. The effect of the retained ATNR can be poor eye tracking and difficulty crossing the visual midline. The occurrence of the reflex can cause difficulties in learning to read, telling the time and left-right confusion as well. ~ The ATNR is often called the “fencing reflex”, due to the fact that when an infant is ly