Connection Course Series: Harnessing Modified Vaulting Movements to Support Reflex Integration
DAY 1
7:00-8:00
I. Welcome and Introduction to Reflexes
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