Part one of this two-day virtual course, will provide clinicians with an evidence-informed framework for identifying, assessing, and addressing retained primitive reflexes in pediatric patients. Participants will explore the neuroscience and developmental role of primitive reflexes, learn standardized assessment techniques, and develop practical strategies for integrating retained reflexes through movement-based and sensory-motor approaches. Learners will also examine the connections between reflex retention, oral function, airway health, posture, sensory processing, attention, and behavior. This course provides tools for both family education and parent-led home programs.
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Learn to identify, assess, and address retained primitive reflexes and their impact on
pediatric development, oral function, sensory processing, and airway health.
Explore the neuroscience behind primitive reflexes, including how they emerge, integrate, and influence neurological development. Learn the developmental timelines, pathways, and potential clinical effects of retained Moro, ATNR, STNR, TLR, Spinal Galant, grasp, rooting, and sucking reflexes.
Learn how to conduct a comprehensive developmental intake and standardized reflex testing battery. Develop skills in proper positioning, stimulus delivery, response grading, and documentation to identify retained reflexes and understand how findings may relate to a child's sensory, motor, cognitive, behavioral, speech, and oral function.
Discover the often-overlooked relationship between retained primitive reflexes, mouth breathing, tongue thrust, low oral resting posture, jaw imbalance, cervical posture, and airway development. Explore how reflex retention can influence vestibular processing, visual tracking, attention, sensory regulation, and craniofacial development.
Learn movement-based and sensory-motor techniques designed to support primitive reflex integration using principles of neuroplasticity. Develop structured, practical home programs that parents can implement and learn how to sequence treatment when multiple reflexes are retained.
Laura Walls, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience, holds a Masterās degree in Speech and Language Pathology & Audiology from California State University of Hayward. Maintaining memberships with ASHA and possessing a California State License in Speech & Language Pathology, Laura's expertise was further honed through a prestigious fellowship at the Veteranās Administration Hospital in San Francisco.
Specializing in pediatric rehabilitation, Laura's career has been dedicated to patients with swallowing and communication disorders, with additional training in Neonatal Intensive Care. Her extensive background includes pioneering a whole-body approach to Myofunctional Disorders and developing the MyĀ® Program and Oral Placement Appliance (OPA)Ā®.
Beyond clinical practice, Laura is a sought-after speaker, holds a certification as a Child Advocate from University of San Diego, and is proficient in Electro~Equiscope and Nasal Release Technique, contributing significantly to her ability to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
The Vivos InstituteĀ® is an Accredited Provider for Continuing Dental Education.
Please review our Event Cancellation Policy for important details about your enrollment.
Join the Sleep and Airway Health: A Proven Path from Knowledge to Implementation Comprehensive Program and gain the tools, expertise, and confidence to revolutionize adult sleep care in your practice. Seats are limitedāsecure your spot today and empower your team to deliver lasting health improvements for your patients.
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