Most primitive reflexes should be inhibited by twelve months of age. The process of inhibition can be interrupted in several ways including neglect. This can lead to developmental challenges in a range of areas including emotional regulation. Rhythmic movement training (RMT) is a reflex integration movement programme that aims to inhibit primitive reflexes and promote developmental maturity. No peer-reviewed research regarding reflex integration programmes and fostered children was found in the literature search. The primary objective of the study was to measure any associated outcomes of this reflex integration programme for fostered children experiencing significant emotional regulation difficulties. This study assessed thirteen fostered children for retained primitive reflexes (RPR) before and after an RMT reflex integration programme as well as the additional domains of challenging behaviors, independent activity, social participation and wellbeing. Each participant was given a reflex integration programme that took nine minutes per day to complete. The RMT reflex integration programme was updated every 4 – 6 weeks. After 3.2 months statistically significant changes were seen. The level of RPR reduced (p < 0.001), the level of challenging behaviors reduced (p ≈ 0.002), social participation improved (p < 0.001), and wellbeing improved (p < 0.001). These changes were also clinically significant, they had a noticeable effect on daily life. These results suggest that an RMT reflex integration programme could be an effective intervention for fostered children experiencing emotional regulation difficulties.

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