Why Your Autistic Child is Developmentally Delayed

If your autistic child seems constantly anxious, dysregulated, unable to sit still, sensitive to sound or touch, or stuck in fight-or-flight mode… this video may explain why. In this video, I break down the hidden role of retained primitive reflexes in autism, whole body apraxia, sensory processing differences, emotional regulation, attention, coordination, posture, and motor development. Primitive reflexes are automatic infant movement patterns that should naturally integrate during early development. But when these reflexes remain active, they can interfere with intentional movement, nervous system regulation, learning, visual tracking, muscle tone, balance, and even emotional control. After more than 20 years as an occupational therapist working with complex autism and neuromotor disabilities, I explain: ✔ What primitive reflexes are ✔ Why retained reflexes are common in autism ✔ The 5 most common retained reflexes she sees clinically ✔ How these reflexes affect movement, behavior, learning, and sensory processing ✔ Simple reflex integration exercises parents can begin using at home In this video, you’ll learn about: • Moro Reflex (fight, flight, freeze) • ATNR Reflex (crossing midline and coordination) • STNR Reflex (posture and sitting still) • TLR Reflex (balance and spatial awareness) • Spinal Galant Reflex (fidgeting, sensory sensitivity, bedwetting) • Palmar Reflex (fine motor and tactile challenges) This video is especially important for parents of autistic children who: Seem constantly on edge Struggle with coordination or motor planning Have sensory processing challenges Cannot sit still or relax Experience emotional dysregulation Have whole body apraxia or neuromotor differences Struggle with attention, posture, balance, or bilateral coordination Primitive reflexes are often overlooked in traditional autism therapy conversations, but they may be one of the foundational reasons your child’s nervous system feels stuck in survival mode. If this video helps you better understand your child, please subscribe and share it with another parent who needs hope and answers. Link to the Primitive Reflex Integration Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1X... 💬 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 👍 Found this helpful? Please like and subscribe for more evidence-based strategies for parents and professionals. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly videos on supporting children with complex autism and whole-body apraxia! IMPORTANT RESOURCES: 🔗 Helpful Resources & Links: https://www.drdanajohnson.com https://www.spellerstampa.com https://www.spelleratlanta.com X: https://x.com/drdanajohnson    / @drdanajohnson   🔗 Spellers Method: www.spellers.com 🎬 Spellers Documentary: • SPELLERS THE MOVIE    • SPELLERS THE MOVIE (Documentary)   📍 Find a Spellers Center: www.spellerstampa.com or www.spellersatlanta.com 📚 Learn About Whole-Body Apraxia: www.drdanajohnson.com Disclaimer: The information provided on this channel is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. I am a licensed occupational therapist, not a medical doctor. The content shared reflects my professional experience, clinical insights, and personal opinions, and should not be interpreted as a substitute for individualized medical, diagnostic, or therapeutic advice. Always consult your physician, licensed healthcare provider, or qualified specialist for guidance specific to your child’s needs. Use of this content is at your own discretion and risk. Viewing or interacting with this channel does not create a therapist-client relationship. #autismtherapy #apraxia #nonverbalcommunication #telepathytapes #abatherapy #nonspeakingautism #s2c #autism #asd