Are you new to the subject of retained primitive reflexes and wanting to learn more? Or have you just started seeing a practitioner and are full of enthusiasm and wonder at how it works?
I’ve read just about every book available on the subject, both as a parent and as a practitioner. So I have collated this hopefully useful book list for you so you can decide which to read first!
No 1. Beyond The Sea Squirt: a Journey with Reflexes by Moira Dempsey
This book was published in May 2019. It is a collection of anecdotes by therapists all around the world on how reflex integration has helped clients of all ages. I helped with an initial edit of the book, and two of the anecdotes are provided by me!
In my opinion, this book is a brilliant introduction to the concept of retained reflexes and how working with reflexes can help people of all ages and with a variety of conditions/challenges. It’s a very accessible book, and should be on your bookshelf if you are starting to learn about reflex integration.
The book shows a few of the rhythmic movements that we use to integrate primitive reflexes. That said, doing it yourself won’t be as efficient as working with someone who has the experience to unravel the individual.
For a chance to win a copy of this book, please go to https://www.facebook.com/move2connectneurodevelopment/photos/a.564450480659171/829624524141764/?type=3&theater
No 2. The Dominance Factor – Carla Hannaford
This is a go-to book for anyone with a child with one of the dys- diagnoses – for example, dyspraxia, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia. It is also useful for auditory processing disorder, given that this is often a left and right hemisphere dominance issue. The book explains how to work out what dominance profile a person has, and explains the relevant learning profile. It is a MUST read for SENCos or anyone working with specific learning difficulties.
No 3 Attention, Balance and Coordination by Sally Goddard-Blythe
Sally Goddard-Blythe is the most well-known author on the subject of primitive reflex integration.
This is one of many of her books. This is aimed mainly at teachers and professionals, but is a fantastic introduction to this fresh look at child development.
No 4 The Well Balanced Child by Sally Goddard-Blythe
This book is my go-to for parents to understand primitive reflexes and child development. It’s a brilliant read – very clear and informative.
No 6 Movements that Heal by Harald Blomberg and Moira Dempsey
Authored by both Moira Dempsey and Harald Blomberg, this book is a concise explanation of how Rhythmic Movement Training can be used to integrate primitive reflexes. It is, however, slightly outdated now, as Moira Dempsey has taken RMTi to a new level since this book was written, and modified a few of the movements slightly.
No7 The Symphony of Reflexes
Symphony of Reflexes is a beautifully accessible book, explaining each reflex in detail. This book contains insight you won’t read anywhere else.
No 8 Is that my child? By Dr Robin Pauc
This is an extremely interesting read, once again containing insights about primitive reflexes that you won’t read anywhere else. This is an accessible read for parents to understand what primitive reflexes are and how working with them can help.
