Primitive Reflex Screening Checklist

This primitive reflex screening checklist is a simple, clear way to identify retained reflexes impacting daily skills. It includes 7 of the most common primitive reflexes.

It is not a tool to be used for diagnosing retained primitive reflexes, it is designed as a screening checklist to identify possible symptoms of retained primitive reflexes. This will help you identify the connection between retained reflex symptoms and their functional implication on daily activities.

Generally when there are three or more check marks within a reflex category, the likelihood of that reflex being retained is increased and should warrant in person, formal reflex testing.

In person, formal primitive reflex testing is the best way to identify if a primitive reflex is retained. This screening checklist is a helpful starting place with reflex integration.

To learn about primitive reflex screening and formal testing, you can view our primitive reflex courses here.

For BrainWorks Primitive Reflex visual tools, you can join our BrainWorks membership here.

Created by Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS