What Every Parent Should Know About the ATNR Reflex
Have you noticed your baby lying on their back with one arm stretched out and the other bent, like a little fencer getting ready for a match? This is called the fencing position, and it’s a natural part of your baby’s development.
Here’s what it means, why it’s important, and how you can support your baby’s growth during this stage.
What Is the Fencing Position?
The fencing position happens when your baby turns their head to one side. You’ll notice:
- The arm and leg on that side stretch out.
- The opposite arm and leg bend up.
This happens automatically because of a reflex called the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR). Think of it as your baby’s brain practicing early movements!
Why Is the Fencing Position Important?
The fencing position isn’t just cute—it’s essential for your baby’s growth. Here’s why:
- Hand-Eye Coordination
The fencing position helps your baby practice turning their head and reaching. These movements lay the groundwork for grabbing, holding, and later—eating and writing. - Motor Skills
By turning their head and moving their limbs, your baby is preparing for big milestones like rolling over, crawling, and eventually walking. - Brain Development
Each movement strengthens connections in your baby’s brain, helping them develop balance, coordination, and focus.
When Should You See the Fencing Position?
- Birth to 6 months: This is when the fencing position is most noticeable, especially when your baby is lying on their back.
- After 6 months: The reflex starts to fade as your baby gains control of their movements and prepares for rolling, sitting, and crawling.
Checklist: Is Your Baby on Track?
Use this simple checklist to monitor your baby’s reflex milestones:
✅ 0–3 Months
- Baby turns their head and assumes the fencing position naturally.
- You notice this position during tummy time or while lying on their back.
✅ 3–6 Months
- Baby starts moving their head and arms more intentionally.
- The fencing position becomes less automatic.
✅ 6+ Months
- Baby begins rolling over, pushing up during tummy time, and showing more voluntary movements.
If your baby hits these milestones, they’re on the right track!
What If the Fencing Position Doesn’t Go Away?
By 6 months, the fencing position (or ATNR reflex) should start to fade as your baby learns to control their movements. If it doesn’t, it could make certain skills harder, such as:
- Rolling, crawling, or walking.
- Using both hands together (like clapping or holding toys).
- Focusing and coordination as they get older.
Don’t panic! Every baby develops at their own pace, but if you’re concerned, talk to your pediatrician for guidance.
How Can You Help Your Baby?
You can support your baby’s development in fun and simple ways:
- Tummy Time
Encourage daily tummy time to strengthen neck, arm, and core muscles. Start with a few minutes and gradually increase. - Encourage Reaching
Place colorful toys or objects near your baby to encourage them to turn their head, stretch their arms, and grab. - Rolling Practice
Gently help your baby roll from side to side to build coordination and integrate the reflex naturally. - Floor Play
Give your baby plenty of time to move freely on a soft surface without being restricted in seats or swings.
You can complement your reading with: Stepping Reflex in Babies: Importance and Development
Need Extra Support? In the Cortex Can Help!
If you’re concerned about your baby’s development or suspect their reflexes are lingering, our In the Cortex Brain Reorganization Program can help.
- What We Do: Our program uses simple, movement-based exercises to help integrate retained reflexes, like the fencing position.
- Why It Matters: By supporting your baby’s brain development early, we lay the foundation for better coordination, focus, and emotional balance as they grow.
Final Thoughts
The fencing position is a natural and important part of your baby’s early development. By encouraging tummy time, rolling, and free play, you’re giving your baby the tools they need to grow strong and coordinated.If you’re ever worried about your baby’s reflexes or development, In the Cortex is here to help with proven brain reorganization techniques.
