Connection Course Series: Harnessing Modified Vaulting Movements to Support Reflex Integration


DAY 1


7:00-8:00

I. Welcome and Introduction to Reflexes

  1. Definition of Primitive Reflexes

Automatic, stereotyped movements directed from the brainstem

Typically integrated in early infancy

Essential for survival and early motor skill development

2.The Pyramid of Learning

What is the Pyramid of Learning and how do it relate to higher functioning and reflexes

3. Impact of Retained Reflexes

Interference with motor control, learning, and behavior

Potential resurfacing under stress

II. Overview of Key Reflexes

Moro Reflex

Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)

Landau Reflex

Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)

Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)

Spinal Galant Reflex

(Excluded: Palmar and Rooting Reflex)

15 minute break 8:00-8:15

10:15-11:45

III. Detailed Analysis of Each Reflex

1. Moro Reflex

Development: 9–12 weeks in utero, integrated by 3–6 months

Function: Protective reflex in response to sudden changes

Symptoms of Retention: Anxiety, motion sickness, motor coordination difficulties

Testing: Scoring scale (0–4)

Integration Exercises: Supine ball grooming, starfish side sitting

2. Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)

Development: Present at birth, integrated by 4 months

Function: Head position affects muscle tone, supports balance/posture

Symptoms of Retention: Poor posture, difficulty crossing midline, toe walking

Testing: Scoring scale (0–4)

Integration Exercises: Ball throwing/catching while looking up, ½ supermans

3. Landau Reflex

Development: Appears at 4 months, integrates around 12 months

Function: Postural control, muscle tone, core strengthening

Symptoms of Retention: Low muscle tone, poor vestibular/ocular skills

Testing: Scoring scale (0-4)

Integration Exercises: Carrot back pass in prone

4. Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)

Development: 18 weeks in utero, integrates by 6 months

Function: Eye-hand coordination, rolling, balance

Symptoms of Retention: Dyslexia, difficulty crossing midline, poor attention

Testing: Scoring scale (0-4)

Integration Exercises: Quadruped “I spy”, crawling with a bean bag

5. Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)

Development: Emerges at 6–9 months, integrates by 11 months

Function: Prepares for crawling, divides body into upper/lower halves

Symptoms of Retention: Poor posture, decreased concentration, “W” sitting

Testing: Scoring scale (0–4)

Integration Exercises: Cat/cow, bird dog, baby rocking

6. Spinal Galant Reflex

Development: In utero, integrates by 3–9 months

Function: Assists in birth, trunk/hip movement, bladder function

Symptoms of Retention: Bedwetting, hyperactivity, postural instability

Testing: Scoring scale (0–4)

Integration Exercises: Donkey kicks, sticky heels, snowman

15 minute break 9:45-10:00

Groups for reflex testing and discussion: 10:00-10:45

Q and A: 10:45-11:00



DAY 2 -

7:00-7:30

IV. Introduction to Vaulting and Its Role in Reflex Integration

History of Vaulting

Origins in Roman games

Modern vaulting developed in post-war Germany

Gymnastics on horseback

Medical Quality Equine Movement

Multisensory input (proprioceptive, tactile, auditory, visual, interoceptive, vestibular)

Rhythmic movement promotes motor skills, neuroplasticity

7:30-8:30

V. Incorporating Vaulting for Reflex Integration

Precautions and Considerations

Age, familiarity, practice in a clinic setting

Selection of appropriate horse and tack

Diagnosis-related precautions

Equipment needed for Vaulting:


The Vaulting horse:

Leading the equine and training

Overall Health and wellness of the equine

Equine factors of horse movement, confirmation and therapeutic effects.

Horse handlers and side walkers

15 minute break 8:30-8:45

8:45-9:00

Specific Vaulting Movements for Reflex Integration

Moro: Upside down couch, starfish side sitting, over unders, peanut rock

TLR/Landau: Throwing/catching ball, ½ supermans

ATNR: Quadruped “I spy” with proprioceptive input, bean bag crawl, infinity loop tracing

STNR: Cat/cow, bird dog, baby rocking

Spinal Galant: Fire Hydrants, sticky heels, snow angels

15 Minute Break 10:00-10:15

10:15-10:45

VI. Case Scenario: Application in Therapy

Client Profile: Emily, 8 years old

Diagnosis: Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), retained ATNR & STNR

Symptoms: Motor coordination issues, balance difficulties, handwriting challenges

Treatment Approach:

Modified vaulting and equine movement

Focus on postural control and sensory processing

Integration exercises tailored to retained reflexes

10:45-11:00

VII. Conclusion and Further Resources

Summary of Key Points

Further Reading and Research References

Q&A and Discussion