The Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) is a primitive reflex that plays a key role in early childhood development. It helps babies transition from lying down to crawling by coordinating upper and lower body movement. When STNR does not integrate properly, it can interfere with posture, coordination, and focus—especially in school-age children. In this guide for parents, you’ll learn what STNR is, how to identify signs of an unintegrated reflex, and how to help your child with simple at-home strategies.
If you’re new to this topic, it may help to first understand what primitive reflexes are and why they matter for child development.
What Is the STNR Reflex?
STNR typically emerges between 6 to 9 months of age and should integrate by 11 months. This reflex helps babies learn to crawl and sets the stage for coordinated movement between the upper and lower body.
When a baby looks down, the reflex causes the arms to bend and the legs to extend. When they look up, the arms straighten and the legs bend. These movements create a neurological foundation for crawling, visual coordination, and later skills like reading and writing.
If STNR remains active beyond infancy, it can create developmental challenges.
Signs of an Unintegrated STNR Reflex
How do you know if your child still has an active STNR? Look for these common signs:
- Slouching at the desk or difficulty sitting upright
- Leaning heavily on hands while writing
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Struggling to copy from the board
- Fatigue during physical tasks
- Stiff or awkward body movements
- Discomfort during seated tasks like homework
These challenges are often misinterpreted as laziness, inattentiveness, or low motivation—but in many cases, the nervous system is simply working harder than it should.
How STNR Affects Posture, Learning, and Behavior
Postural Instability
When STNR is unintegrated, sitting upright becomes tiring. Kids may appear restless or floppy at their desks because their bodies are reflexively triggered by head movement.
Learning Difficulties
Looking from paper to board and back again can become a source of stress. Reading, writing, and copying may take extra effort or lead to frustration.
Focus and Attention Issues
A child who is constantly battling their body to stay upright has less energy available for paying attention or engaging in lessons.
What Causes Retained Primitive Reflexes?
Several factors may interfere with reflex integration:
- C-section or premature birth
- Limited tummy time
- Time spent in upright containers (bouncers, walkers, etc.)
- Neurological trauma or stress in early development
Not all children follow the same developmental timeline. If STNR remains active, it simply means the nervous system needs additional support.
How to Help: Exercises for STNR Reflex Integration
STNR can be integrated at any age with targeted, rhythmic movements that mirror early developmental patterns. Simple exercises include:
- Cat-Cow Stretch – Performed on hands and knees to activate spinal flexibility and coordination
- Crawling – Cross-lateral crawling on the floor helps train neurological timing
- Head Tilts with Control – Slowly looking up and down while keeping hands and feet steady
These movements are especially effective when practiced consistently in a calm environment.
Video: How to Integrate the STNR Reflex at Home
In this short video, we demonstrate practical exercises that you can start using today to support STNR integration at home.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
If you’ve tried traditional strategies—like behavior plans, tutoring, or posture corrections—without lasting results, your child may benefit from a full reflex integration assessment. A trained specialist can evaluate their reflex profile and recommend a plan of action.
How In the Cortex Can Help
At In the Cortex, we guide families through simple, neuroscience-based programs that support brain and body integration. Our approach includes:
- Reflex screening
- Developmental movement sequences
- Nervous system regulation
- Progress tracking and parent support
Learn more about our Primitive Reflex Integration Program
Conclusion: Support Your Child with Confidence
The Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex is a normal part of early development—but if it sticks around too long, it can create challenges in learning, posture, and self-regulation. With consistent support and the right tools, your child can build a stronger foundation for lifelong success.
