The Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) is a crucial aspect of early human development, playing a significant role in various physical, cognitive, and sensory functions. Here is an overview of some of the benefits of STNR:
- Assists with the birthing process: STNR is activated during the birthing process, helping newborns navigate the transition from the womb to the outside world.
- Supports cross-lateral movements: STNR helps in the development of cross-lateral movements, such as sitting, creeping, crawling, and walking, which are essential for the development of fine motor skills and coordination.
- Enhances visual and auditory skills: STNR contributes to the organization and perception of binocular vision and binaural hearing. It supports the ability to move and use both eyes equally and effectively and hear with both ears equally, influencing visual skills such as depth perception and visual tracking, as well as auditory processing skills like depth, distance, and localization.
- Supports fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination: STNR helps with fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, contributing to the development of overall motor coordination.
- Supports speech and language development: STNR influences speech and language development, which is crucial for communication and social interaction.
- Influences the learning process and skills: STNR also influences the learning process and skills, affecting a child’s ability to focus and concentrate.
- Enhances vestibular system and posture: STNR influences the vestibular system, affecting balance, spatial orientation, and posture. It also contributes to the development of standing, sitting, and walking posture and gross motor coordination.
- Supports muscle tone and stability: STNR supports the development of muscle tone, neck control, and core stability, which are important for overall motor coordination and movement.
The Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex plays a crucial role in early human development, influencing a wide range of physical, cognitive, and sensory functions. Understanding the benefits of STNR can help parents and healthcare professionals better support children’s growth and development.
Check out these resources from Reflex Integration Through Play™️ to support therapists and parents screen for and treat retained STNR in a fun and functional way.
An Interactive Guide to the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex
A hands-on instructional guide offering parents and providers an invaluable tool for integrating therapeutic exercises into a child’s natural environment and compassionately understanding the developmental challenges related to it.
Are you a parent looking to support your child’s development? Check out our online course, How to Support Your Child’s Development at Home.
How to Support Your Child’s Development at Home
An accessible on-demand video course and guide to primitive reflex integration designed for parents and caregivers at home. Understand the basics of primitive reflexes and learn simple and fun exercises you can do with your child.
