The association between learning disorders, motor function, and primitive reflexes in pre-school children: A...

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Educational Psychology

Background:

• Preschool children's development involves complex interactions between cognitive, motor, and neurological functions.
• Understanding the interplay between learning disorders, motor skills, and primitive reflexes is crucial for early identification and intervention.
• Existing research presents a heterogeneous landscape, necessitating a systematic synthesis of evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review empirical evidence on the associations between learning disorders, motor function, and primitive reflexes in preschool children.
• To synthesize findings regarding motor deficits and their relation to learning and executive functions.
• To explore the link between specific primitive reflexes and developmental outcomes such as school readiness and attention.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of seven major academic databases (EMBASE, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, Medline, PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, Cochrane) was conducted.
• Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles reporting new empirical data on any two of the three core phenomena in preschool children, excluding intervention or pathological condition studies.
• Twenty-seven papers were included and assessed for methodological quality using the Hoy et al. Risk of bias tool.

Main Results:

• Motor deficits were frequently associated with speech/language, executive functions, and academic performance.
• Three studies indicated a positive correlation between high levels of the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex and improved fine motor skills, school readiness, and reduced impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention.
• Significant study heterogeneity necessitates caution in interpreting the aggregated results.

Conclusions:

• Motor function and learning disorders are interconnected in preschool children, with deficits impacting academic and executive functions.
• Primitive reflexes, specifically the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex, show potential correlations with key developmental milestones and behavioral regulation.
• Further research is required to elucidate common underlying mechanisms, potentially leading to improved early diagnostic approaches for these interconnected developmental phenomena.