This is a reflex test... It's called the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR). This reflex should normally integrate (go away) by around 6 months of age. If it's still present later, it can affect posture, hand-eye coordination, and even reading and writing skills. You can check this on your child by having them in a "puppy push-up" position, gently turning their head side to side, and watching to see if their arms straighten or bend in response. For more reflex testing examples, DM us the word

When assessing infants, don’t forget about primitive reflexes 👶✨ For example, the ATNR (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex) causes the arm and leg on the side the head is turned toward to extend, while the opposite side flexes. So if baby’s head is turned right, you’ll see extension on the right and flexion on the left — totally normal at this stage! 💡That means when you’re checking range of motion, it might look like one side is tight or restricted… but really, it’s just that reflex doing its job

Have you noticed that your child has poor handwriting or they skip lines frequently when they read? These could be the sign of the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex not being properly integrated! Having this retained reflex can inhibit kiddos from reading and comprehending, riding a bike correctly, or even walking in a straight line! Are you interested in learning more about primitive reflexes and how you can start to help your kids get on the right track? We have free educational resources that yo

This is a reflex test. Have your child walk on the outside edges of their feet. Their arms should swing naturally—just like a typical walk. But if the elbows bend, the wrists rotate inward, or the arms stiffen— That’s not poor posture. That’s a retained primitive reflex. Specifically: ATNR Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex. It should disappear after infancy. If it’s still firing? It can disrupt movement, attention, even emotional regulation. Want to test it further? Walk with toes turned out like a