Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

The Inclusion Bites Podcast

Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

Speaker

Joanne Lockwood

Speaker

Niki McGlynn

00:00 Inclusion Bites: Sparking Change Conversations 03:30 From Diagnosis to Neurotherapy Advocate 08:46 Understanding ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity 12:42 Fear Reflex Impacts Social Interaction 16:44 Instincts: Survival Overrides Happiness 18:57 Neck Reflexes Affecting Movement 21:44 Developing Sensory and Motor Coordination 23:57 Retained Reflexes Impact Learning 27:38 Reflex Integration: A Lifelong…

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Episode Summary with Intro, Key Points and a Takeaway

In this enlightening episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Niki McGlynn to unravel the intersection of neurodevelopment and inclusion with a focus on the often-overlooked impact of primitive reflexes. Together, they explore how foundational movement patterns established in early childhood influence lifelong learning, social integration, and overall wellbeing—especially for neurodivergent individuals and those with conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia. The conversation gracefully weaves personal experiences with expert insights, delving into the challenges faced both in the classroom and beyond when neurodiversity is misunderstood or missed altogether. Joanne and Niki challenge listeners to consider how evolving societal expectations and childhood environments may inadvertently hinder the natural calibration of neurodevelopment, while uncovering practical steps to rekindle these vital connections through movement in later life.

Niki is a neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach based in the south of England, whose journey stems from her own experiences with undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD. Her expertise lies in translating the often arcane science of neurodevelopment into real-world, movement-based strategies that empower clients of all ages to unlock their potential. Niki’s approach is both deeply personal and firmly practical; she draws on her experience supporting her daughter through the diagnostic labyrinth, which propelled her to become a practitioner and trainer herself. Her work centres on understanding and integrating primitive reflexes—those innate patterns every infant develops—that often leave a lasting imprint on learning, behaviour, and emotional regulation if not matured beyond infancy. Through one-to-one clinical practice and public education, Niki is dedicated to demystifying these mechanisms and equipping individuals and families with tools to thrive.

Listeners are invited to reflect on how society can better support neurodivergent minds and why traditional approaches to learning and behaviour may need rethinking. A key takeaway from this episode is the transformative potential of addressing primitive reflexes through purposeful movement, breaking cycles of frustration and enabling inclusion from an authentic, physiological foundation. This is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the science of belonging, neurodiversity, and how simple, mindful changes can fuel empowerment at every stage of life.

📚 Timestamped overview

00:00 Inclusion Bites, hosted by Joanne Lockwood, explores inclusion and belonging, encouraging bold conversations and societal change. Join by emailing jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.

03:30 Diagnosed with dyslexia and later ADHD, a woman pursued neurodevelopment therapy to help her daughter, leading her to become a trainer.

08:46 The text discusses the journey of people with ADHD, highlighting aspects such as rejection sensitive dysphoria, where individuals feel a heightened sense of rejection. The speaker notes personal experiences and observations in their daughter, who feels friendless despite having friends and social interactions.

12:42 Fear reflexes hinder social interaction by causing feelings of unsafety, affecting eye contact and speech.

16:44 Behaviour is often driven by survival instincts, akin to reflexes, not by the pursuit of happiness.

18:57 Poorly integrated neck reflexes can cause balance issues. Active reflexes might make you collapse or swerve when looking down or turning your head. This causes problems with actions like descending stairs or driving.

21:44 Infants develop coordination, 3D vision, and hearing through activities like crawling, helping to establish dominant senses and focus. Difficulty in these areas can indicate reflex issues.

23:57 Integrated reflexes allow natural posture, freeing the brain for learning, unlike active reflexes which force conscious effort to maintain posture.

27:38 Reflex issues affecting children and adults, such as restlessness and bedwetting, can be addressed with reflex integration at any age.

32:30 Staying active, especially through activities like dancing, maintains both physical and brain health by building neural connections.

34:04 Yoga, tai chi, and qigong improve balance by enhancing the vestibular system, crucial from womb development, linked to cerebellum function.

38:11 Increased fear of illness has led to a more risk-averse society, opposing vaccines and favouring isolation over exposure.

43:05 As children, we wheeled go-karts five miles up Portsdown Hill and raced down, sometimes crashing into a fence at the bottom.

44:23 Quick release wheels on prams were unsuitable for go-karts, leading to detached wheels while in motion; they were fixed with split pins.

50:05 Poor executive function leads to debilitating procrastination, impacting organisation and productivity; support is needed to help individuals reach their potential.

51:20 A cycle of behaviour where individuals momentarily comply but then become disruptive due to uncontrollable exuberance, often misunderstood as attention-seeking, characterised by their inherent nature.

54:11 Entrepreneurship is linked to resilience from experiencing failure, unlike always succeeding.

57:35 Joanne Lockwood promises to return with inspiring, unifying stories, aiming for a more inclusive world.

TikTok/Reels/Shorts Video Summary

Focus Keyword: Primitive Reflexes

Video Title: Unlocking Positive People Experiences Through Primitive Reflexes | #InclusionBitesPodcast

Tags: primitive reflexes, positive people experiences, culture change, inclusion, neurodiversity, ADHD, dyslexia, movement therapy, neurodevelopment, empowerment, workplace inclusion, social belonging, executive function, brain development, coaching, well-being, SEE Change Happen, inclusion podcast, Niki McGlynn, Joanne Lockwood, education reform, integration strategies, diversity, mental health, learning difference

Killer Quote:
"It's a reflex, you know, it's like blinking. You have no control over it. We're wired for survival, not for happiness." – Niki McGlynn

Hashtags:
#PrimitiveReflexes, #PositivePeopleExperiences, #CultureChange, #Inclusion, #Neurodiversity, #ADHD, #Dyslexia, #MovementMatters, #Empowerment, #InclusionBitesPodcast, #Wellbeing, #Neurodevelopment, #WorkplaceInclusion, #Diversity, #SEEChangeHappen, #SocialBelonging, #ExecutiveFunction, #LearningDifference, #MentalHealth, #Belonging

Summary Description:
Ever wondered how understanding primitive reflexes can unlock truly Positive People Experiences and drive real Culture Change? In this episode of Inclusion Bites, I’m joined by neurodevelopment therapist Niki McGlynn for a deep dive into the unseen force of primitive reflexes—and how they shape everything from learning differences to our sense of safety and belonging. We tackle misconceptions, lived experiences, and actionable strategies from ADHD to executive function. If you’re passionate about inspiring workplace inclusion, culture change or supporting neurodiversity in yourself or others, this episode is a must-listen. Join our community, discover how movement can transform lives, and be part of a culture where everyone thrives. Ready for real change? Listen now, reflect, and share your thoughts to help build a more inclusive future.

Outro:
Thank you, the listener, for tuning in to this episode. If you found value in our conversation, please give us a like and subscribe to our channel for more bold discussions about Positive People Experiences and Culture Change. For additional resources and to get involved, visit SEE Change Happen at https://seechangehappen.co.uk. Listen to the full episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast here: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen.

Stay curious, stay kind, and stay inclusive - Joanne Lockwood

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive sequence of topics covered in the "Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time" episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, with sub-topics listed under each main theme:

1. Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

Purpose of Inclusion Bites and its community focus.
Guest introduction: Niki McGlynn’s background as a neurodevelopmental therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach.

2. Personal Journeys with Neurodiversity

Niki’s motivation: her daughter’s and her own diagnoses of dyslexia and ADHD.
The generational discovery of neurodivergence within families.
Societal changes: evolving understanding and increased recognition of neurodiversity in girls and women.

3. Challenges of Living with Neurodivergence

Experiences of frustration and misunderstanding during early education.
The stigma and emotional toll of being labelled “stupid” or incapable.
Coping strategies and frustrations in children with dyslexia.

4. Literacy and Learning Differences

The dichotomy of reading methods: phonics versus shape/pattern recognition.
The experiences and difficulties dyslexic individuals face in mainstream education.
The tendency to hyper-focus and extract information differently.

5. Reflecting on Childhood Behaviours Through an Adult Lens

Recognising behaviours associated with ADHD retrospectively.
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and the mismatch between perception and reality.
Social anxiety and its roots in unintegrated primitive reflexes.

6. Primitive Reflexes: Definition and Impact

Explanation of primitive reflexes and their developmental role.
Categories of reflexes: fear reflexes (moro and fear paralysis reflex).
How retained reflexes affect feelings of safety, social interaction, eye contact, and selective mutism.

7. The Fight-Flight System and Emotional Regulation

Distinction between different fear reflexes and their behavioural manifestations.
Effects on sensory processing and adaptability to change.
The impact of the pandemic on social safety and reflex activation.

8. Modern Child Development Challenges

Changes in childrearing practices (e.g., reduced movement due to baby equipment).
Importance of movement for brain development.
How lack of movement leads to incomplete reflex integration and later neurodevelopmental issues.

9. Neck and Spinal Reflexes in Learning and Coordination

Neck reflexes: their influence on executive function, handwriting, and organisation.
How unsuccessful integration of such reflexes can lead to practical difficulties like crossing midline, driving, or cycling.
Spinal galant reflex and its role in fidgeting, inability to stay still, sensory sensitivities, and nocturnal enuresis.

10. Strategies for Reflex Integration and Neurodevelopment

Movement-based interventions for integrating reflexes at any age.
Examples: climbing, yoga, crawling, dancing, and spinning.
The importance of whole-systems approaches versus targeting individual reflexes.

11. Adult Neuroplasticity and Ageing

Changes in reflex functioning and movement as people age.
Benefits of continued movement for maintaining neurological health.
Techniques to improve balance and proprioception (e.g., standing on one leg, spinning).

12. Societal and Environmental Influences

Risk aversion in playgrounds and society’s impact on child development.
The significance of risk-taking in personal and neurological development.
How post-pandemic behaviours and media further social withdrawal and safety concerns.

13. Gender, Diagnosis, and Masking in Neurodiversity

Differences in how ADHD and dyslexia present in boys and girls.
Social masking and why girls are often underdiagnosed.
The need for better education and awareness in schools.

14. Strengths and Challenges of Neurodivergent Individuals

The duality of neurodiversity: unique abilities and serious challenges.
Executive dysfunction, organisation difficulties, and the emotional cost.
The link between neurodiversity and creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

15. Support, Acceptance, and Suicide Awareness

The association between undiagnosed ADHD and increased suicide risk.
Social perceptions, shame, and the need to challenge moral judgements.
Normalising conversations about difference for individual well-being.

16. Summary and Closing

Emphasis on movement, self-understanding, and removing stigma.
Contact information for guest support.
Invitation for listeners to join and continue the inclusion conversation.

This sequence reflects the holistic and in-depth approach the episode takes, from detailed neurodevelopmental science to personal narrative and actionable inclusion.

🗞️ Newsletter

Subject: Empower Your Mind and Embrace Inclusion – Latest on The Inclusion Bites Podcast!

Hello Inclusion Bites Community,

Welcome back to your sanctuary of bold, change-driven conversations! We’re thrilled to share the highlights from Episode 166 of The Inclusion Bites Podcast: “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time,” hosted by Joanne Lockwood.

Discover the Science of Movement, Reflexes, and Belonging

This week, Joanne welcomes the insightful Niki McGlynn—neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach. Niki unpacks her personal journey with late-diagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, revealing how understanding primitive reflexes and movement can unlock untapped human potential, especially for those navigating neurodivergence.

Key Talking Points This Episode:

Primitive Reflexes Unveiled:
Learn what primitive reflexes are and why they matter for learning, socialising, and feeling safe. Think you outgrew your baby reflexes? Think again! Niki explains how these foundational movement patterns continue to impact both children and adults, influencing behaviour, sensory processing, and executive function.
Movement as the Gateway to Cognitive Wellness:
“The less you move, the less your brain develops,” Niki notes. From crawling to climbing and dancing, everyday movement strengthens not just bodies but minds. Fascinatingly, societies lacking crawling don’t develop written language—a testament to the deep connection between movement and intellect.
Inclusion and Self-understanding:
The discussion challenges societal assumptions about neurodiversity, exploring how undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia manifest differently in women and girls due to social masking. The pandemic’s legacy of heightened fear and risk aversion also comes under the microscope, highlighting the continuing need for belonging and psychological safety.
Actionable Advice:
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or curious about your own neurological wiring, the episode is packed with accessible ways to integrate positive movement into daily life. Practical suggestions range from yoga and climbing to the simple act of standing on one leg while brushing your teeth to boost balance, proprioception, and brain health.

A Call to Action

Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a movement. As Niki and Joanne demonstrate, true inclusion means recognising diverse paths to learning, growth, and participation. Let’s normalise conversations around neurodiversity, challenge outdated narratives of “moral failing”, and champion everyone’s right to thrive.

Continue the Conversation:
Have thoughts, stories, or a vision to share? Connect directly with Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk to be heard, or join as a future guest.

Listen Now:
Catch this illuminating episode and all others at Inclusion Bites Podcast.

Let’s ignite the spark of inclusion—one bold bite at a time.

Warm regards,
The Inclusion Bites Team

#InclusionBites | #PositivePeopleExperiences | #EmpoweringMinds

🧵 Tweet thread

🧠 What if movement could unlock not just our bodies, but our MINDS? | A Thread on “Powering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” from #InclusionBites with Joanne Lockwood & neurodevelopment therapist Niki McGlynn 👇

1/
Ever heard of primitive reflexes? These are involuntary movements we all make as babies—think startle reflex or crawling. But what if they DON’T fully develop or integrate? They can shape everything from learning differences to emotional responses, even as adults.

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Niki’s story started with her own and her daughter’s late diagnosis of dyslexia & ADHD. Many parents only connect the dots after their children are diagnosed. Why? Because so many signs—like struggling with school routines or being “daydreamy”—are MISUNDERSTOOD.

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Did you know? Dyslexic people often excel at “whole word” reading—recognising word shapes—instead of phonics. The brain adapts! But rigid school systems can make children feel “stupid” when they simply learn differently. What’s seen as noncompliance may simply be neurodiversity at work.

4/
ADHD? It’s not just hyperactivity. There’s intense sensitivity to rejection, challenges organising daily life, and “memory” that’s not always reliable—a brain wired for survival, not just happiness. Can you relate to masking or feeling like you don’t fit? You’re not alone.

5/
But here’s the science bit: Primitive reflexes like the Moro (startle) or fear paralysis reflex, if not integrated, can cause ongoing challenges—social anxiety, sensory overload, even difficulty sitting still or focusing. It’s not “bad behaviour” or “laziness”—it’s neurology.

6/
Modern life doesn’t help. Less physical movement in infancy—think car seats, less tummy time—means fewer opportunities to integrate these reflexes. The result? More people struggling with executive function, reading, listening, and self-regulation.

7/
So what’s the solution? MOVEMENT. Not just exercise, but intentional, targeted activities that help reconnect brain and body. Crawling, climbing, spinning, even standing on one leg while brushing your teeth—these can rewire old patterns, at ANY age.

8/
And let’s break the stigma: ADHD and dyslexia are not moral failings or “lack of willpower”, but differences in wiring. With support—whether through neurodevelopment therapy, movement, or greater understanding—they can become superpowers.

9/
Neurodiverse minds bring creativity, resilience, and innovation. But society must move beyond “one-size-fits-all” thinking. Inclusion means empowering everyone to thrive, not just to survive.

10/
Ready for change? Listen to the full “Inclusion Bites” episode with Joanne Lockwood & Niki McGlynn for bold, actionable conversations on building a more inclusive world.

🎧 #InclusionBites Podcast
Contact: jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
#Neurodiversity #Inclusion #MovementMatters #Belonging #ADHD #Dyslexia #SEEChangeHappen

Let’s move, spark action, and thrive—one reflex at a time!

Guest's content for their marketing

Certainly! Here is an article for Niki McGlynn to use for her own marketing, written from her perspective and grounded in the rich content of her guest appearance on the Inclusion Bites Podcast. This piece is intended for LinkedIn, newsletters, her professional website, or similar platforms.

Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time: My Experience on the Inclusion Bites Podcast

I was absolutely delighted to join Joanne Lockwood as a guest on the Inclusion Bites Podcast, sharing my passion and work as a neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach. The episode, “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time,” provided a unique platform for me to discuss the profound connection between movement, primitive reflexes, and neurodevelopment, particularly in relation to neurodiversity and inclusive practice.

Throughout our conversation, I was able to shine a light on my own journey—rooted in personal and familial discovery of late-diagnosed dyslexia and ADHD. Like so many families, our pathway to understanding began with my daughter’s diagnosis, which cascaded through generations. This deeply personal connection ignited my commitment to uncovering evidence-based, movement-oriented interventions that can help children and adults overcome learning and sensory barriers often overlooked in mainstream education and healthcare.

One of the highlights of our discussion was unpacking the role of primitive reflexes. These innate movement patterns, developed in early infancy, underpin our ability to feel safe, process information, and develop robust executive function. Many people—teachers, parents, and adults navigating neurodivergence—have never come across terms like ‘moro reflex’ or ‘fear paralysis reflex’, yet these foundational responses can quietly shape behaviour, learning, attention, and even social belonging throughout our lives.

Joanne and I explored how highly sensitive fear reflexes present as social anxiety, selective mutism, or challenges with executive function—issues so often mislabelled as laziness, lack of effort, or discipline. We talked candidly about lived experiences: the frustration of unrecognised processing difficulties, and the stigma attached to not fitting the ‘norm’, both in educational and work settings.

The Inclusion Bites Podcast provided a wonderfully supportive space to discuss not just the physiological science of reflex integration, but also practical tools and hope. We covered the importance of movement—be it rolling down hills, crawling, climbing, or dance—as a means to unlock brain development and resilience at any age. I was pleased to share that, contrary to common belief, it is never too late to recalibrate these reflexes. Adults, too, can benefit from targeted movement therapies, as neuroplasticity remains with us throughout life.

Perhaps most importantly, we addressed the role of inclusion—not merely recognising neurodiversity, but actively celebrating and creating environments where every individual can thrive. The conversation delved into the ongoing challenges faced by those with ADHD, dyslexia, or sensory processing differences: the shame, the masking, and the higher rates of mental health concerns. My message, both on the podcast and here, is one of empowerment and possibility: with the right understanding, support, and movement-based intervention, we can all find our place and potential.

I encourage anyone interested in their own or their family’s neurodevelopment, or wishing to build more inclusive, neurologically-informed workplaces and classrooms, to listen to the full episode via See Change Happen’s website. Connect with me on www.organisedmind.co.uk or LinkedIn if you'd like to keep the conversation going, attend a workshop, or explore how reflex integration could benefit you or your organisation.

A big thank you to Joanne and the Inclusion Bites audience for such a rich, thought-provoking exchange. Together, we really can empower minds—one reflex at a time.

Listen to the episode here: Inclusion Bites Podcast – Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

#InclusionBites #Neurodevelopment #ADHD #Dyslexia #PrimitiveReflexes #Inclusion #Belonging #SeeChangeHappen

Pain Points and Challenges

Certainly! Based on the transcript of "Inclusion Bites Podcast, Episode 166: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time," here’s a focused summary of specific pain points and challenges discussed, followed by guidance on how to address them:

Key Pain Points and Challenges Raised in the Episode

Late or Missed Diagnosis of Neurodivergence
- Many adults and children experience delayed recognition of conditions like dyslexia and ADHD, either due to lack of awareness, parental doubt, or insufficient understanding in schools.
- Self-perception of being “stupid” or “hopeless” is mentioned as a result of misunderstood processing differences, particularly around dyscalculia and executive function.
Misunderstanding Behavioural Traits and Learning Styles
- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and social anxiety are highlighted, along with how internal perceptions often fail to match external realities (e.g., thinking one does not “fit in” despite evidence to the contrary).
- The frustration of coping with learning differences without appropriate strategies or labels.
Limited Awareness of Primitive Reflexes
- Most people, including professionals, are unfamiliar with the concept of primitive reflexes and their ongoing influence on adult behaviour, emotional wellbeing, and learning capability.
- Persisting primitive reflexes can underpin difficulties with reading, writing, organisation, posture, sensory processing, and even social interaction.
Outdated or Mismatched Educational Approaches
- Reliance on phonics-based reading instruction disadvantages learners with dyslexia, who often respond better to visual pattern recognition.
- Lack of recognition/adaptation in the classroom leaves many neurodivergent students unsupported.
Societal and Structural Impediments to Movement and Brain Development
- Modern childcare practices (e.g., babies spending prolonged periods on their backs or in car seats) hinder brain development by limiting movement essential for integrating reflexes.
- Risk aversion in children’s play significantly restricts natural brain/body calibration via movement and challenge.
Moralisation and Shame Surrounding Neurodivergence
- Difficulties with organisation, motivation, or sensory sensitivities are frequently perceived as moral failings rather than neurological differences.
- Social constructs perpetuate shame and guilt, exacerbating social exclusion and mental health challenges.

Approaches to Address Each Challenge

Promote Early and Holistic Diagnosis
- Encourage schools and parents to observe a wide array of learning and behavioural differences and seek professional evaluation early.
- Emphasise that diagnosis is not about labels but about unlocking appropriate strategies for thriving.
Increase Awareness and Understanding of Primitive Reflexes
- Educate teachers, parents, and neurodivergent individuals about the ongoing impact of primitive reflexes and practical ways to assess retained reflexes.
- Use movement-based assessments and consider referrals to reflex integration specialists as part of neurodevelopmental reviews.
Tailor Educational Strategies
- Advocate for differentiated learning—offer both phonics and whole-word recognition to cater to varied learning preferences.
- Train educators to identify executive functioning challenges and adapt instruction, workspaces, and assessment practices accordingly.
Integrate Movement Into Daily Life for All Ages
- Ensure children have plenty of time for free movement: tummy time for infants, crawling, rolling, climbing, and risky play.
- For adults, incorporate movement such as yoga, dance, tai chi, or rolling/spinning activities to support ongoing neuroplasticity.
- Encourage practices such as standing on one leg while brushing teeth to maintain balance and proprioception.
Reframe Difference as Diversity, Not Deficit
- Shift social narratives from “deficiency” to “difference” by celebrating neurodivergent strengths, such as creativity, lateral thinking, and resilience.
- Provide safe platforms for individuals to share experiences, normalise challenges, and receive community support—not just remedial intervention.
Combat Shame and Foster Belonging
- Normalise discussions of neurodivergence in schools, workplaces, and communities to break down stigma.
- Create policies that actively support adjustments in employment and education (e.g., flexible deadlines, sensory-friendly work environments).

Empowering Action Steps for Listeners

Share resources about primitive reflexes and neurodivergence with your network to broaden communal understanding.
Encourage movement-friendly environments at home, school, and work.
If you or your child struggle with focus, reading, or organisation, consider seeking support from a neurodevelopment therapist or reflex integration practitioner.
Question the status quo: Are social expectations of “normal behaviour” excluding or harming neurodivergent people around you?
Push for systemic change—support training and awareness campaigns in educational and professional settings.

For further resources, insights, or to engage with the Inclusion Bites community, visit Inclusion Bites Podcast or reach out to Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.

Inclusion starts with understanding—then action. Every conversation, movement, and mindset shift counts.

Questions Asked that were insightful

Absolutely—several questions from this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast yielded responses that are both insightful and foundational for building a useful audience FAQ. Drawing from the transcript, here are the key questions and the essence of the responses, structured as a potential FAQ series:

Frequently Asked Questions Inspired by Episode 166: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

1. What are primitive reflexes, and why should we care about them?
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns babies exhibit from conception through the first year of life. If they do not fully integrate, these reflexes can impact social interaction, learning, and feelings of safety well into adulthood. They underpin developmental processes and, if retained beyond infancy, can manifest as challenges with processing, organisation, attention, and even sensory sensitivities.

2. How do unintegrated primitive reflexes show up in daily life—for children and adults alike?
Unintegrated reflexes may present as difficulty sitting still, challenges with coordination, problems with reading or writing due to poor visual tracking, or heightened sensitivity to sensory inputs (such as noise, lights, or certain fabrics). In adults, they can contribute to issues such as social anxiety, poor organisation, and difficulties with self-regulation.

3. Can these reflexes be integrated or ‘recalibrated’ later in life?
Yes. Engaging in targeted movements—often coordinated under the guidance of neurodevelopmental therapists—can help individuals at any age integrate these reflexes. While the process may be quicker for children due to brain plasticity, adults can still benefit considerably from intentional movement-based exercises.

4. What kinds of activities or interventions support reflex integration?
Any movement-rich activity supports brain connectivity, but there are also bespoke reflex integration programmes. Activities like yoga, climbing, crawling, dancing, and even spinning can help. Integrative approaches usually address the person as a whole rather than isolating each reflex. Practical tips include standing on one leg while brushing teeth to improve balance and bone density.

5. Why are neurodivergent traits often more pronounced or recognised nowadays?
Increased awareness and broader diagnostic criteria certainly play a role. However, changes in how children move—or don’t move—during early development (due to modern lifestyles) may result in more pronounced symptoms of neurodivergence. Routine activities, such as outdoor play, climbing, and rough-and-tumble, once inadvertently encouraged brain development and reflex integration, are now less common.

6. How do social expectations and shame exacerbate neurodivergent struggles?
Society often interprets processing and organisational challenges as moral failings, which heaps additional pressure and shame onto neurodivergent individuals. Increased understanding and accommodation—rather than judgment—are essential to supporting people to live to their potential.

7. Why is movement so vital for ongoing brain health as we age?
Movement doesn't just foster physical health—it is fundamental to maintaining brain health and connectivity. Regular activity, particularly complex and coordinated actions like dancing or climbing, can counteract age-related decline in balance, reaction time, and cognitive function.

These FAQs flow directly from the conversation between Joanne Lockwood and Niki McGlynn, picking up on moments where the dialogue digested the science, practical experience, and implications for inclusive practice. They serve as a resource for listeners eager to understand the intersection between neurodevelopment, reflex integration, and inclusion—core themes of both this episode and the wider podcast series.

For more detailed responses or to join the conversation yourself, listeners can always reach out to Joanne at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk or tune in to more episodes at Inclusion Bites.

Blog article based on the episode

Empowering Brains, Breaking Barriers: How Primitive Reflexes Hold the Key to Inclusion

Have you ever questioned why some children (and adults) seem paralysed by fear in group settings, find it impossible to sit still, or are ostracised for being “disruptive”—despite their best efforts to fit in? Imagine a world where “not belonging” is less about external difference and more about the silent, unseen mechanics of our own brains. In episode 166 of the Inclusion Bites Podcast, Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time, Joanne Lockwood welcomes neurodevelopment therapist and ADHD coach Niki McGlynn, whose lived experience and expertise peel back the layers on an issue that could well redefine our approach to true inclusion.

The Problem: Unseen Barriers Lurking Beneath the Surface

Inclusion is more than ticking boxes—it's about understanding the barriers that prevent people from thriving. But what if those barriers aren't just social or structural? As McGlynn explains, the story really begins in early childhood, and even in the womb.

Many neurodivergent people, from those with dyslexia and ADHD to those with broader executive function differences, find their lives shaped by what they cannot see or even describe. For McGlynn—and countless others—the revelation came only after a family diagnosis (in her case, her daughter's dyslexia and later her own). Like so many, she spent years feeling “stupid,” internalising failure, and wrestling with a pervasive sense of not belonging.

But what if these challenges are essentially neurological—not moral, not behavioural, not a failure to try hard enough?

Enter the Science: Primitive Reflexes and the Movement Blueprint

Primitive reflexes are at the heart of McGlynn’s therapeutic work. These are instinctive movement patterns—such as the well-known startle reflex in babies—that should integrate into our nervous system during early development. But, as McGlynn details, if these reflexes remain “active” or “unintegrated,” they can sabotage everyday life in surprising ways.

Imagine these scenarios:

Social anxiety that isn’t based on life experience but on a rooted fear response from an unintegrated Moro (startle) reflex.
Children paralysed by fear of speaking—not due to unwillingness or shyness, but because the fear paralysis reflex literally shuts down their vocal cords.
Adults who can’t sit upright without conscious effort or are relentlessly fidgety, not because they’re “disruptive” but due to retained spinal galant reflexes—evolved to help us be born, but lingering unhelpfully.
Inability to cross the midline when writing or awkwardness with spatial coordination, all due to reflexes related to early infant movement.

For so many, the result is a cascade of frustration, shame, and exclusion. As Lockwood and McGlynn highlight, these struggles are often masked, particularly in girls, whose coping mechanisms and social masking render them less visible in the classroom until the wheels fall off later in life.

The Agitation: Inclusion that Ignores the Body is Incomplete

Here’s where the inclusion agenda faces its next great disruption. How can environments be truly inclusive if educators, employers, and even families do not recognise the window into the nervous system that primitive reflexes provide?

Far too often, these reflex-driven challenges are pathologised. Children are labelled as lazy, disobedient, or “not trying” instead of recognised as struggling with internal neurological barriers. The result: adults who battle with shame, chronic low self-esteem, and in many cases, higher rates of mental distress and suicide.

This isn’t just about inconvenience; it’s about lives curtailed by a lack of understanding and practical support.

Actionable Steps: From Awareness to Empowerment

The core message inspired by Niki McGlynn is that knowledge, movement, and compassion can radically reframe these challenges—not just for children, but for adults too. Here’s how we can take this into practice:

1. Educate Yourself and Your Community

Understanding primitive reflexes is key. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, HR professional, or simply someone who feels “out of step,” take time to learn about neurodevelopmental movement and how it relates to executive function, sensory processing, and emotional regulation.

Resource: McGlynn recommends googling “retained primitive reflexes” and seeking credible books and resources—or working with a trained practitioner.

2. Prioritise Movement—At Any Age

Movement isn’t just physical fitness; it’s neurological nourishment. Encourage children (and adults) to crawl, climb, dance, or even learn yoga and tai chi. These activities forge vital connections in the brain and can help integrate stubborn reflexes.

Simple tips include:

For older adults: Try standing on one leg while brushing your teeth to refine balance and bone density.
For children: Encourage rolling down grassy hills, climbing, and exploratory play—get those vestibular and proprioceptive systems buzzing!

3. Challenge Shame and Redefine Behaviour

When faced with perceived behavioural issues—be it fidgeting, chatty outbursts, or “poor listening”—pause. Ask: could a primitive reflex be driving this? Reframe the behaviour not as moral failing, but neurological processing. Offer understanding, and where practical, allow for movement or alternative strategies rather than enforcing punitive stillness.

4. Design Truly Inclusive Environments

Educational and work environments that value neurodiversity should also value dynamic movement and flexible participation. Wobble cushions, flexible seating, and regular movement breaks can transform a constrained day into one where brains (and people) can thrive.

5. Seek Support and Community

If what you’ve read resonates, you’re not alone. Support is available—from neurodevelopmental therapists such as Niki McGlynn, peer groups, and growing online communities focused on nervous system health.

The Inclusion Bites Challenge

Inclusion is not a surface-level exercise—it involves questioning our deepest assumptions about body and mind. When we accept that some barriers to belonging are wired deep in the nervous system, we not only destigmatise difference, we empower lives.

Let’s heed the message of episode 166, Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time, and dare to invite movement into our inclusion conversations.

Ready to dig deeper?

Subscribe to The Inclusion Bites Podcast for more bold conversations that illuminate and inspire.
Want to join the dialogue, or share your own story? Reach out to Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk—your lived experience could be the next step in our collective journey towards a more inclusive world.
Connect with Niki McGlynn and learn more about neurodevelopmental therapy—empowerment could be just a movement away.

Inclusion begins not only with the heart and mind, but with the whole, moving body. Let’s create spaces where everyone not only belongs, but thrives—one reflex at a time.

FAQs from the Episode

FAQ: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time — Insights from Inclusion Bites Podcast, Episode 166

1. What are primitive reflexes, and why are they important?
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns that emerge from conception and typically integrate within the first year of life. They lay the neurological foundation for higher-order brain functions, including socialisation, executive functioning, balance, and learning. If these reflexes fail to integrate properly, they may remain active, subtly influencing behaviour, movement, and even emotional responses throughout life.

2. How do primitive reflexes impact neurodivergent individuals, especially those with ADHD or dyslexia?
Active primitive reflexes can exacerbate difficulties commonly seen in neurodivergent people, such as challenges with focus, organisation, coordination, and social interaction. For example, retained reflexes may contribute to struggles with eye-tracking (affecting reading), posture, spatial awareness, anxiety in social situations, and processing sensory information.

3. What led Niki McGlynn to neurodevelopment therapy and ADHD coaching?
Niki’s journey began with her own late diagnosis of dyslexia and ADHD, which followed her daughter’s similar experience. Seeing the struggles both her and her daughter faced, Niki sought solutions and discovered neurodevelopmental therapy—focusing on movement and reflex integration—ultimately becoming a practitioner and trainer to help others unlock their potential.

4. How do retained reflexes present in everyday life, both in children and adults?
Retained reflexes can show up as difficulties in sitting still, concentrating, reading, writing, balance, organisation, and emotional regulation. Physical manifestations might include fidgeting, sensitivity to sensory inputs, poor posture, and awkwardness with tasks demanding fine motor skills. There can also be psychological effects, such as heightened anxiety or social withdrawal.

5. Can reflex integration still be achieved in adulthood, or is it only possible in childhood?
It is possible to integrate primitive reflexes at any age through targeted movement-based programmes. While children typically respond more quickly due to greater neuroplasticity, adults also see benefits with persistence. Activities might include bespoke neurodevelopmental exercises, yoga, dance, climbing, or even simple practices like balance work.

6. Why does modern childhood development sometimes lead to more pronounced neurodivergent traits?
Modern childcare practices, such as decreased unstructured movement (e.g., more time strapped in car seats, less risky play, and limited crawling), can hinder the natural integration of primitive reflexes. This can intensify issues related to neurodiversity, making traits like dyslexia, ADHD, and sensory processing difficulties more observable or acute.

7. What are some common examples of retained reflexes and their effects?

Fear Paralysis and Moro Reflexes: Heightened sensitivity, social withdrawal, feeling unsafe, selective mutism, or unexplained meltdowns.
Neck Reflexes: Trouble with eye movement (difficulties reading), poor spatial orientation, organisational challenges, and balance issues.
Spinal Galant Reflex: Fidgeting, inability to sit still, sensitivity to clothing labels, and even persistent bedwetting beyond early childhood.

8. How do movement and physical activity affect brain development and maintenance?
Movement is critical for healthy brain function, not just in childhood but throughout life. Activities that challenge balance, coordination, and sequencing (like yoga, climbing, or dancing) help build and maintain neurological connections, support executive functions, and may counteract age-related cognitive decline.

9. What can individuals do to support their own or their child’s reflex integration?
Begin by encouraging varied, purposeful movement. For adults and children, options include structured movement therapies, yoga, balance exercises, crawling-type activities, climbing, and even spinning for vestibular system development. Consultation with a neurodevelopmental therapist is advisable for tailored support, especially if sensitive reflexes related to fear or trauma are suspected.

10. Where can listeners find more information or support regarding primitive reflexes and neurodevelopmental therapy?
Niki McGlynn’s practice, Organised Mind, offers resources, programmes, and guidance for those interested. Her website is https://organisedmind.co.uk and she is present on Facebook as “Organised Mind” and on LinkedIn as Niki McGlynn. Additional information is available via reputable online sources and books on primitive reflex integration.

For more bold conversations on inclusion and belonging, explore other episodes of the Inclusion Bites Podcast at seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen. If you have a story to share or questions to ask, contact Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.

Tell me more about the guest and their views

The guest for this episode of Inclusion Bites is Niki McGlynn, who brings a specialised perspective as a neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach. Niki is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their full potential through movement and an understanding of primitive reflexes. Her approach combines the science of neurodevelopment with practical, movement-based strategies tailored to help both children and adults, especially those who are neurodivergent, such as those with dyslexia or ADHD.

Key Views and Insights from Niki McGlynn:

Personal Journey and Motivation:
Niki’s entry into this field was deeply personal. She herself was diagnosed with dyslexia in adulthood, following her daughter’s diagnosis of dyslexia and later ADHD. Niki highlights how common it is for parents to recognise their own neurodivergent traits after their children are diagnosed, revealing generations of undiagnosed neurodiversity.
Understanding Primitive Reflexes:
Niki's core expertise revolves around primitive reflexes—automatic movement patterns present from conception until about the first year of life. These reflexes underpin neurological development and can influence everything from social interaction to learning skills such as reading and writing. She is passionate about raising awareness of these often-overlooked factors, noting that few people, even within neurodiversity circles, have any real knowledge of their profound effects.
Movement as the Gateway to Cognitive Development:
Niki firmly believes that the brain develops through movement and that modern lifestyles—especially the reduced movement seen in children—can hinder this crucial development. She discusses how insufficient crawling or active play may leave primitive reflexes unintegrated, resulting in processing and learning challenges later in life.
Impact on Daily Life and Learning:
According to Niki, retained primitive reflexes can manifest as difficulties with executive function, organisation, posture, sensory processing, and even social engagement. She draws connections between these reflexes and behaviours often misinterpreted as laziness, lack of discipline, or moral failings, urging a shift towards a more nuanced, compassionate understanding.
Therapeutic Approach:
Her therapeutic methodology is holistic, favouring integrative movement programmes over targeting individual reflexes in isolation. She emphasises accessible activities—such as yoga, dancing, climbing, or even simple balance exercises—which can help reintegrate these reflexes, improve sensory-motor skills, and enhance quality of life, even well into adulthood.
Societal Implications:
Niki expresses concern over the current trend of risk-aversion in both education and parenting, noting that this can further impede healthy neurological development. She draws a link between increased diagnosis of neurodivergent conditions and lifestyle changes that deprive children of crucial movement and risk-taking opportunities. She also sees a pervasive stigma and misunderstanding of neurodiversity, leading to shame and negative self-concept, particularly for children frequently criticised for behaviours they cannot control.
Emphasis on Normalising Difference:
A recurring theme in Niki’s perspective is the importance of reframing neurodivergence—recognising the superpowers and strengths it can bring, rather than solely focusing on deficiencies. She advocates for greater inclusion, understanding, and practical support so neurodivergent individuals can thrive.

In summary, Niki McGlynn advocates for a paradigm shift in our understanding of neurodevelopment, championing movement and practical strategies as fundamental keys to both personal growth and broader societal inclusion. Her approach is both empathetic and scientifically informed, calling for greater awareness, acceptance, and a willingness to support neurodiversity not just through words, but through meaningful, everyday actions and accommodations.

Ideas for Future Training and Workshops based on this Episode

Certainly! Drawing upon the rich insights and lived experiences shared in “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” from The Inclusion Bites Podcast, here are several targeted training and workshop ideas:

1. Introduction to Primitive Reflexes and Neurodevelopment

Objective: Demystify primitive reflexes, their role in early development, and their continuing influence on learning, behaviour, and inclusion.
Features: Engaging demonstrations, interactive movement exercises, real-life case studies, opportunities for Q&A.
Audience: Educators, HR professionals, parents, neurodiversity advocates.

2. Understanding Neurodiversity: From Lived Experience to Inclusive Practice

Objective: Foster empathetic, evidence-based understanding of dyslexia, ADHD, and related neurodivergent experiences; challenge common misconceptions and biases.
Features: Storytelling panels, myth-busting quizzes, empathy-mapping exercises.
Audience: Line managers, diversity champions, school staff, general workforce.

3. Movement Matters: The Missing Link in Inclusive Education and Workplaces

Objective: Explore the connection between movement, primitive reflexes, and cognitive and emotional regulation.
Features: Practical movement routines (e.g., chair spinning, yoga, balance exercises), small group discussions, toolkits for integrating more movement into daily routines.
Audience: Schools, early years settings, corporate wellbeing teams.

4. Practical Reflex Integration for Adults

Objective: Address how adults can recognise signs of retained reflexes and apply movement-based strategies for personal development, resilience, and wellbeing.
Features: Guided self-assessments, tailored movement plans, habit-building techniques.
Audience: Occupational health specialists, senior leaders, those experiencing executive function challenges.

5. Neuroinclusive Leadership and Workplace Adaptations

Objective: Equip leaders to better support neurodiverse employees, especially those struggling with executive functioning, sensory sensitivities, and social anxiety.
Features: Interactive scenarios, reasonable adjustment brainstorms, peer-led knowledge exchange.
Audience: Senior managers, HR, D&I leads.

6. Supporting Neurodivergent Children: Bridging Parent and Educator Roles

Objective: Provide tools for early identification of developmental needs and collaborative approaches.
Features: Parent-educator forums, resource-sharing, workshops on communication with neurodivergent children.
Audience: Parents, SENCOs, teaching assistants, nursery staff.

7. Social Belonging and Inclusion for Neurodivergent Individuals

Objective: Tackle the impact of rejection-sensitive dysphoria and social anxiety in group settings.
Features: Facilitated discussion circles, role-play, confidence and self-advocacy techniques.
Audience: Peer support groups, youth workers, workplace mentors.

8. Resilience, Risk, and Recovery: Lessons from Primitive Reflexes for Modern Challenges

Objective: Examine risk-averse behaviours post-pandemic and strategies to rebuild confidence, social connection, and adaptability.
Features: Reflective activities, resilience-building exercises, movement-based stress-reduction methods.
Audience: Multi-generational teams, community organisations.

9. Creating Sensory-Smart Spaces

Objective: Address sensory processing differences (e.g., light, noise, fabrics) linked to reflexes; design inclusive environments.
Features: Environmental audits, practical adjustments, sensory-friendly resource development.
Audience: Facilities managers, school and office planners.

10. Intergenerational Learning: Movement and Brain Health Across the Lifespan

Objective: Champion lifelong movement and reflex calibration for cognitive and emotional health.
Features: Interactive sessions blending child and older adult participants, balance and proprioception exercises, reminiscence activities.
Audience: Families, care homes, community groups.

Each of these workshop ideas can be tailored for in-person or online delivery, and adapted in length and depth according to audience need. All draw directly from the expertise and reflections of this thought-provoking episode, with a strong foundation in evidence and inclusion best practice.

For bespoke design or facilitation enquiries, reach out to Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk, or explore past and upcoming podcast episodes at Inclusion Bites Podcast.

Email Newsletter about this Podcast Episode

Subject: Unlock Potential: Episode 166 of Inclusion Bites Reveals the Power of Movement & Mind

Hello there Inclusion Bites community,

Ready for a burst of insight, curiosity, and some “aha!” moments? Episode 166, Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time, might just become your new favourite listen—and for good reason! In this enlightening episode, Joanne Lockwood sits down with neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach, Niki McGlynn, to explore how our earliest movements could be key to unlocking potential in every stage of life.

Here are 5 keys you’ll take away from this episode:

Primitive Reflexes: The Hidden Drivers
You’ll discover what primitive reflexes are and why these instinctive movements from infancy matter more to daily life—and inclusion—than you ever imagined.
The Connection between Movement and Brain Development
Niki shares how movement isn’t just for physical health: it’s a direct line to brain development, executive functioning, and building the foundation for learning and attention.
Recognising Neurodiversity Through Lived Experience
Listen as both Niki and Joanne reflect on personal and family journeys with dyslexia and ADHD, revealing how late diagnoses often result when parents discover their own neurodivergence through their children.
Daily Impacts: From Social Life to Sitting Still
Learn how retained reflexes can influence everything from social anxiety and procrastination to an inability to sit still—and why it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
Movement as Medicine Across the Ages
Whether it’s yoga, dancing, climbing, or even rolling down hills, embracing playful movement isn’t just for children. Niki explains how all ages can benefit by re-integrating these reflexes through enjoyable activities.

Unique Fact from the Episode:
Did you know there’s a neurological reason why some children (and adults!) squirm at their desk, can’t tolerate clothing tags, or are hyper-aware of background noises? Niki links these sensations to the spinal galant reflex—a primitive reflex that, if not “integrated,” can last into adulthood and touch every part of our daily experience. Forget “fidgety bum”—it’s your nervous system trying to do its job!

Ready to dive in?
Join Joanne and Niki for a truly eye-opening conversation that blends science with empathy. Hit play on Episode 166 of Inclusion Bites and get ready to see inclusion, movement, and neurodiversity in a new light.

Strong Finish:
At Inclusion Bites, we believe everyone deserves to thrive—not just fit in. Let’s keep empowering each other by learning, sharing, and moving together. If this episode sparks a thought, a memory, or a question, you’re warmly invited to reply or reach out to Joanne at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk. You could even feature in a future episode!

Stay curious, keep moving, and let’s champion inclusion—one bold conversation at a time.

Warm wishes from the Inclusion Bites team
#InclusionBites #EmpoweringMinds #NeurodiversityMatters

L&D Insights

Certainly! Here’s a Learning & Development expert’s summary tailored for Senior Leaders, HR, and EDI professionals, distilling the core insights and actionable “aha moments” from Inclusion Bites Podcast episode 166, “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” with Niki McGlynn and host Joanne Lockwood.

Key Insights for Senior Leaders, HR & EDI Professionals

1️⃣ Neurodiversity Is Rooted in Early Development — And It’s Often Invisible

The discussion demonstrates that neurodivergence such as dyslexia, ADHD, and associated behavioural tendencies are not simply a matter of “attitude” or “effort”. They are deeply linked to primitive reflexes—instinctive movement patterns hardwired into our neurology from birth. These reflexes, if not integrated through movement and development, may persist into adulthood and impact learning, behaviour, and social inclusion.

Aha Moment:
Many challenges labelled as ‘performance’, ‘organisational’, or ‘behavioural’ issues may be manifestations of unintegrated neurodevelopmental reflexes—not wilful non-compliance or laziness.

2️⃣ Movement and Environment Matter More Than We Realise

The way children move, play, and interact with their environment—both at home and in educational settings—has a significant impact on their neurological development and the integration of these reflexes. The pandemic, changes in play culture, and increased sedentary lifestyles can amplify neurodivergent challenges.

Aha Moment:
‘Reasonable adjustments’ for neurodivergent individuals go far beyond policy—they involve rethinking workplace environments (lighting, movement breaks, flexible seating) and recognising the variable impact of environmental factors over one’s neurological health and inclusion experience.

3️⃣ Masking and Late Diagnosis — Especially Among Women

Girls and women often fly “under the radar” with neurodivergence, developing advanced coping mechanisms or being mislabelled as “daydreamers” rather than hyperactive or disruptive. This can lead to late diagnosis and a profound sense of social disconnect or low self-worth.

Aha Moment:
Workplaces that rely on visible disruptiveness as a marker for support may unintentionally exclude neurodivergent women and non-binary individuals, who are more likely to mask or internalise symptoms.

4️⃣ Reframing Labelled ‘Failures’ as Neurodevelopmental Gaps

Repeated failures, shame, and negative labels attached to executive dysfunction actually reinforce disadvantage and poor mental health for neurodivergent colleagues. The language and response leaders employ can either help integrate people or further alienate them from teams and organisational purpose.

Aha Moment:
Reframing performance conversations from “why can’t you do this?” to “how does your wiring impact this task, and what might you need to succeed?” fundamentally shifts the climate of inclusion.

5️⃣ Movement, Not Just Mindfulness, Promotes Workplace Well-being

Yoga, dance, and physical exercises don’t just boost physical health—they support adult neuroplasticity. Regular, inclusive opportunities for movement benefit all staff, and perhaps especially neurodivergent colleagues.

Aha Moment:
Well-being initiatives should include a movement component—think standing desks, stretch breaks, and inclusive fitness options—not just “mental health” or “resilience” seminars.

Recommendations — What To Do Differently

Embed Neurodiversity Education: Run informative sessions illuminating how early brain development impacts adult behaviour—help leaders ‘see’ the invisible.
Audit & Adjust Environments: Create more flexible, sensory-friendly workspaces. Encourage movement and personal regulation (e.g., fidget objects, standing/walking meetings).
Rethink Support Pathways: Review your screening and referral processes to capture non-obvious neurodivergent traits, particularly in staff who may mask or internalise challenges.
Focus on Language: Equip managers with scripts and strategies to shift from blaming to understanding—moving away from deficit language toward empowerment.
Expand Well-being Strategies: Offer accessible, non-judgemental movement opportunities across the organisation.

Social Media Hashtags

#InclusionBites
#NeurodiversityMatters
#EmpoweringMinds
#CultureOfBelonging
#WorkplaceWellbeing

✨ Ready for bold, inclusive leadership? Leverage these next-level insights to champion a workplace where everyone can thrive—one reflex at a time! For more details, visit Inclusion Bites Podcast or contact host Joanne Lockwood at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.

Shorts Video Script

Social Video Title:
Unlocking Your Brain’s Hidden Reflexes: Movement, Neurodiversity, and True Inclusion #InclusionForAll

Hashtags:
#InclusionForAll #Neurodiversity #PrimitiveReflexes #UnlockPotential #InclusiveMindset

[Text on screen: Why Do We Struggle To Feel Included? 🤔]

Ever wondered why some people find it hard to feel safe or included, even when there’s no obvious reason? Let’s talk about something you’ve probably never heard of—primitive reflexes—and how simple movement can unlock our true potential, especially for neurodivergent people.

[Text on screen: What Are Primitive Reflexes? 🧠]

Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns we all develop as babies. They help us survive in early life, but if they don’t “disappear” the way they should, they can cause all sorts of challenges later on. Think about how you might struggle with eye contact, sitting still, reading, or even socialising.

[Text on screen: Why Does This Matter? 💥]

These unintegrated reflexes don’t just affect children—they impact adults as well. You might notice fidgeting, sensory overwhelm, trouble organising yourself, or even social anxiety. It’s not a question of intelligence or willpower—it’s literally how your brain is wired for survival.

[Text on screen: Movement Is Key! 🚶‍♂️]

But here’s the game changer: the brain develops through movement! Activities like crawling, climbing, dancing, yoga, or even rolling down a hill aren’t just for kids—they’re vital for brain connection, wellbeing, and feeling truly “at home” in your body and mind.

[Text on screen: Take Action Today! 🌱]

Forget feeling guilty or broken. Instead, try integrating more movement into your routine—stand on one leg while brushing your teeth, dance, walk, or take up a gentle exercise. If you suspect lingering reflexes are affecting your life, there are specialist programmes and resources to help, no matter your age.

[Text on screen: The Bottom Line 💡]

Inclusion starts when we understand ourselves and one another, from our brains to our behaviours. Moving more isn’t just good for your physical health—it’s the first step to breaking down hidden barriers and supporting everyone to thrive.

Thanks for watching! Remember, together we can make a difference. Stay connected, stay inclusive! See you next time. ✨

Glossary of Terms and Phrases

# Specialist Concepts and Terminology from Episode 166: "Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time"

Here’s a list of concepts, terms, and phrases from this Inclusion Bites Podcast episode which are not frequently used in everyday conversation. Each term is followed by its implied definition as used in the episode’s context:

- **Primitive Reflexes**  
  Involuntary movement patterns that originate in infancy (from conception to roughly the first year of life). These reflexes are essential for early brain development through movement and should eventually become integrated into the central nervous system, lying dormant thereafter.

- **Fear Paralysis Reflex**  
  An early developmental reflex that, if unintegrated, results in feelings of not being safe and can inhibit eye contact, speech (selective mutism), and engagement in social situations. It can manifest as an inability to act despite wishing to, akin to being 'frozen'.

- **Moro Reflex**  
  Also known as the ‘startle reflex’, this reflex is stimulated by sudden movements or loud noises in infants and is linked to the body’s fight-or-flight response. If it remains active, it can lead to heightened stress reactions, meltdowns, or sensory processing challenges in later life.

- **Neurodevelopment Therapy**  
  A therapeutic approach focussing on using movement to integrate primitive reflexes and facilitate optimal brain development, especially in neurodivergent individuals.

- **Executive Function**  
  Higher-level cognitive processes aiding in organisation, planning, and self-management. Issues with executive function are discussed as part of neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and dyslexia.

- **Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria**  
  Acute emotional pain triggered by the perception (real or imagined) of rejection, criticism, or exclusion, particularly common in those with ADHD.

- **Retained Reflexes**  
  Primitive reflexes which have not been fully integrated into the nervous system and remain active beyond infancy. Retained reflexes can influence physical coordination, social interactions, and cognitive processing.

- **Spinal Galant Reflex**  
  A primitive spinal reflex connected to movement and attention. If retained, it compels continual movement or fidgeting and may impact the ability to sit still, listen, or focus.

- **Neck Reflexes**  
  A group of reflexes (including the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex, for instance) facilitating development in head, eye, and limb coordination. Their integration is essential for tasks such as reading, writing, and spatial awareness.

- **Proprioception**  
  The body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space, crucial for coordination and balance.

- **Vestibular System**  
  The sensory system responsible for providing the brain with information about motion, head position, and spatial orientation; foundational for balance and movement regulation.

- **Neurodiversity/Neurodivergent**  
  Broad terms describing the diversity of human brains and minds, specifically encompassing those with conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, and autism, and highlighting their natural and valuable variation from neurotypical norms.

- **Masking (in Neurodivergence)**  
  The tendency, often more prevalent in girls and women, to ‘mask’ or hide neurodivergent traits in social settings by consciously adapting behaviour to fit in.

- **Reflex Integration**  
  The process by which primitive reflexes are absorbed into the central nervous system through repeated movement patterns, allowing voluntary control and freeing up cognitive capacity for higher functions.

- **Interoception**  
  The sense of the internal state of the body, such as hunger, thirst, tiredness, and the need to use the toilet. Proper development of interoception is essential for healthy self-regulation.

- **Hyperfocus**  
  Intense and prolonged concentration on a specific subject or task, often to the exclusion of everything else; characteristic of some forms of neurodiversity.

- **Spinal Gland Reflex**  
  Referenced as a misunderstanding or mishearing of ‘spinal galant reflex’ – included for completeness due to its mention.

- **Prefrontal Cortex**  
  The part of the brain associated with complex cognitive behaviour, decision-making, and moderating social behaviour; referenced in relation to cognitive load when managing unintegrated reflexes.

- **Binaural Hearing**  
  The ability to use both ears together to determine the direction and source of sounds, developed through early symmetrical use of the body and crucial for spatial awareness.

- **Reflex-Based Movement Programmes**  
  Structured movement activities designed to target and integrate retained primitive reflexes in children and adults.

This vocabulary shows the episode’s emphasis on the intersection of developmental neurology, movement, and inclusion.

SEO Optimised YouTube Content

Focus Keyword: Primitive Reflexes and Neurodevelopment

Video Title:
Empowering Minds: Primitive Reflexes and Neurodevelopment for Positive People Experiences | #InclusionBitesPodcast

Tags:
primitive reflexes, neurodevelopment, ADHD, dyslexia, positive people experiences, culture change, inclusion, belonging, diversity, Joanne Lockwood, Niki McGlynn, movement strategies, executive function, integration, neurodiversity, reflex integration, self-regulation, societal transformation, disability inclusion, see change happen, learning differences, inclusive cultures, behaviour, wellbeing, education, #InclusionBitesPodcast

Killer Quote:
“We’re wired for survival, not for happiness. So even though we think we want to do this because it'll make us happy, if our brain, if that real sort of caveman part of our brain perceives it as being dangerous, then it won’t let us do the things that we think will make us happy.” – Joanne Lockwood

Hashtags:
#PrimitiveReflexes, #Neurodevelopment, #ADHD, #Dyslexia, #PositivePeopleExperiences, #CultureChange, #Inclusion, #Belonging, #Diversity, #ReflexIntegration, #MovementMatters, #Neurodiversity, #Wellbeing, #LearningDifferences, #SeeChangeHappen, #EmpoweringMinds, #SocietalTransformation, #InclusiveCulture, #BehaviourChange, #InclusionBitesPodcast

Why Listen:

Are you curious about the foundational role of primitive reflexes in shaping neurodevelopment, and how this directly impacts Positive People Experiences and broader Culture Change? This episode of the Inclusion Bites Podcast is your invitation into a transformative dialogue where the unseen intricacies of the mind meet the urgent demands of inclusion. I, Joanne Lockwood, bring you a riveting conversation with neurodevelopmental therapist and trainer, Niki McGlynn, as we uncover the science, stories, and movement strategies that define the landscape of learning differences, neurodiversity, and belonging today.

From the very start, we set the scene for a bold, no-nonsense approach to inclusion and societal transformation. The conversation journeys deeply into Niki’s personal and professional path, revealing how undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD not only shaped her life but also ignited her purpose to champion movement-based therapeutic solutions. If you have ever wondered why some individuals “just can’t sit still”, “struggle with reading”, or face immense difficulty with executive function, this episode connects the dots, highlighting how primitive reflexes underpin many such experiences. We challenge outdated assumptions, recognising that learning and behaviour are not mere matters of will or effort but fundamental neurological processes.

The discussion then spotlights the concept of primitive reflexes – those early movement patterns all babies exhibit – and why their integration (or lack thereof) matters throughout life. You’ll gain a new appreciation for how these reflexes can underpin ADHD, dyslexia, and difficulties with executive function, self-regulation, and even social interaction. With clarity and warmth, Niki explains how fear-based reflexes such as the Moro or fear paralysis can shape everything from anxiety and selective mutism to hypersensitivity and meltdowns. Through real-life stories and expert observations, we demystify why “good behaviour” or “fidgetiness” might be a child (or adult) struggling with lingering reflexes, not merely lacking discipline.

Societal transformation is impossible without understanding and empathy. That’s why we delve into the wider implications: the shift in childhood development due to modern parenting practices, risk aversion, and the impact of events like the Covid-19 pandemic. How has our increasing caution, the reduction in physical risk-taking, and changes in early movement (such as less crawling or outdoor play) fuelled a rise in neurodevelopmental differences? Together, we explore how Positive People Experiences and true Culture Change demand that we move away from shaming or blaming differences, toward supporting and celebrating alternative pathways to thriving.

Practical and profound, the episode is packed with actionable insights. Find out why movement therapies – not just traditional education or psychological interventions – can offer life-changing improvements at any age. Discover how everyday activities such as dancing, yoga, climbing, and even spinning in a chair help calibrate the brain, build resilience, and reverse some age-related decline. We strip away the stigma around learning differences, stressing the moral imperative to support neurodivergent individuals, not simply because it is humane, but because their creativity and problem-solving are integral to positive societal change.

If you are a D&I professional, educator, parent, or simply someone fascinated by the science of mind and culture, this episode delivers a holistic understanding alongside practical inspiration. Hear about the real roots of procrastination, the interplay between sensory issues and learning, the social dynamics of ADHD and dyslexia, and how risk-taking, failure, and physical challenge go beyond physical health – they are critical to cognitive function and self-worth.

Most importantly, you will leave with a renewed commitment to Culture Change, layering empathy atop evidence, and promoting Positive People Experiences for all. Inclusion isn’t just about policies or slogans – it’s about understanding and honouring the invisible struggles and superpowers within us all.

Closing Summary and Call to Action

This episode, Empowering Minds: Primitive Reflexes and Neurodevelopment for Positive People Experiences, arms you with vital knowledge and tangible steps to help drive Culture Change in your personal, organisational, and community life. Here’s what you need to take away and put into action:

1. Recognise the Power of Primitive Reflexes

Understand that primitive reflexes are not merely “baby behaviour”. They are foundational to an individual’s sensory processing, motor coordination, emotional regulation, and learning ability.
Acknowledge that when these reflexes are not fully integrated, they can persist into adulthood, influencing everything from attention span to social interaction.

2. Lead with Empathy, Not Assumptions

Shift your mindset from judgment (“just try harder”, “sit still”, “pay attention”) toward a more empathetic, evidence-based perspective.
See learning and behavioural challenges as potential signs of reflex integration issues, not character flaws or moral failings.

3. Advocate Movement for Mind and Body

Promote activities that stimulate brain development at any age, such as yoga, dancing, climbing, crawling, and even spinning in a chair.
Encourage open opportunities for movement-based therapies and reflex integration exercises, particularly in educational settings.

4. Address Culture Change in Parenting and Education

Reflect on the reduced risk-taking and movement in modern childhoods – from constant supervision to less outdoor play and increased sedentary behaviour.
Consider advocating for more “risky play”, tree climbing, rolling down hills, and less constrained early experiences, recognising these as catalysts for neurological development.

5. Break the Cycle of Shame and Stigma

Use the language of Positive People Experiences to reframe difference as potential, not deficit.
Challenge the social constructs that equate executive dysfunction or learning struggles with failure, and model inclusion in everyday language and behaviour.

6. Create Supportive Environments – at Home, Work, and School

Foster environments where individuals are supported according to their neurological profile, with tools like wobble cushions, fidget-friendly spaces, or movement breaks.
Encourage schools and employers to recognise masking behaviours and invisible struggles, so girls and women, as well as boys and men, receive the support required.

7. Champion Personal Agency and Resilience

Emphasise “use it or lose it” throughout life. Staying active builds not just physical health, but brain health, memory, and reaction time, reversing some age-related changes.
Normalise recalibration and seeking support at any age for better balance, coordination, and wellbeing.

8. Embed Inclusion into Culture

View neurodivergent strengths — creativity, innovation, lateral thinking — as vital to progress. Make space for these voices as leaders and change-makers.
Recognise that transformative Culture Change depends on amplifying inclusion, not just for compliance but for collective brilliance and adaptability.

9. Utilise Resources and Expert Support

Encourage those experiencing persistent difficulties to seek out trained reflex integration therapists, utilising reputable resources online and in their local area.
Direct listeners and leaders to quality materials, courses, and communities such as Organised Mind, and reputable sites for ongoing education and support.

10. Spread the Word and Build the Movement

Share this episode and the Inclusion Bites Podcast with friends, colleagues, and anyone invested in Positive People Experiences and true Culture Change.
Become an active participant: question, reflect, and inspire conversations that move beyond the surface, tackling root causes and celebrating difference.

By weaving together science, lived experience, and practical action, Empowering Minds sets the tone for sustained inclusion – grounded in understanding, fuelled by empathy, and energised by movement. It’s time for you to take these insights to your organisations, families, and communities, fostering environments where everyone not only belongs but thrives.

Outro

Thank you, the listener, for joining me on this episode of the Inclusion Bites Podcast. Your commitment to learning and driving Culture Change is what fuels Positive People Experiences in our ever-evolving society. If you found value in this discussion, please do like, subscribe, and share. To explore more conversations with changemakers and discover resources designed to help you nurture inclusive cultures, visit:

SEE Change Happen website: https://seechangehappen.co.uk
The Inclusion Bites Podcast: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen

Stay curious, stay kind, and stay inclusive – Joanne Lockwood

Root Cause Analyst - Why!

Certainly. Drawing on the detailed discussion in the episode “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” with Niki McGlynn and host Joanne Lockwood, here is a root cause analysis of one of the most salient problems addressed:

Key Problem Identified:
Children and adults with neurodivergent conditions (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD) often struggle with learning, behaviour regulation, social integration, and are frequently misunderstood due to unaddressed primitive reflexes and a lack of awareness about neurodevelopmental needs.

Root Cause Analysis – The Five Whys

1. Why do neurodivergent individuals struggle with learning, behaviour, and social integration?
Because their primitive reflexes may not have been fully integrated during infancy, leading to atypical neurological development that affects executive functioning, sensory processing, and bodily control.

2. Why weren’t these primitive reflexes fully integrated in the first place?
Because modern parenting practices, societal changes, and environmental factors often do not allow infants sufficient opportunities for natural movement patterns (e.g., crawling, tumbling, rolling), which are essential for integrating these reflexes.

3. Why have contemporary practices reduced these movement opportunities?
Because there is an increased emphasis on safety, use of restrictive baby equipment (e.g., prolonged use of car seats, back-lying in cots), and less encouragement of risky play or vigorous physical activity, both in and out of school settings. This is compounded by increased digital device usage and sedentary lifestyles.

4. Why is there an increase in restrictive practices and reduced active play?
Because of societal risk aversion (desire to prevent injury or liability), fading awareness of the importance of physical developmental milestones, and evolving cultural norms that prioritise academic or digital engagement over physical exploration.

5. Why is there a lack of awareness about the importance of these developmental experiences?
Because health, education, and parental guidance systems often lack up-to-date or widely disseminated knowledge on neurodevelopment, and there has historically been little emphasis in educational or public health messaging on the long-term implications of primitive reflex integration.

Summary of Root Causes

At the deepest level, the root cause is a societal shift away from supporting natural, risk-involved movement in infancy and childhood, influenced by risk aversion and lack of awareness about neurodevelopmental processes. This results in a high prevalence of retained primitive reflexes, which underpin many neurodivergent presentations and difficulties in both children and adults. There is also a deficit of specialist knowledge among both the general public and frontline professionals (teachers, GPs, parents) concerning the significance of movement in neurological development and learning.

Potential Solutions

Awareness Campaigns:
- Educate parents, carers, teachers, and health professionals about the critical importance of primitive reflex integration and the role of movement in early childhood development.
- Use multi-channel public health messaging, including schools and antenatal classes.
Reform in Early Years Settings:
- Encourage nursery and primary schools to prioritise floor-based play, tumbling, crawling, and risk-appropriate climbing—making these a formal part of early curriculum.
- Reduce reliance on restrictive baby equipment and increase supervised opportunities for babies to move freely.
Professional Training:
- Incorporate neurodevelopmental training—including the identification of retained primitive reflexes—into teacher, paediatric, midwifery, and health visitor education.
- Ensure that neurodiversity is understood not just in terms of behaviour, but in its neurological and sensorimotor context.
Early Identification and Intervention:
- Develop accessible screening tools for primitive reflex retention and neurodevelopmental delays, available through schools and primary care.
- Create referral pathways to movement-based therapists for children and adults who display related learning or behavioural challenges.
Promote Movement for All Ages:
- Emphasise regular, varied physical activity—yoga, dance, climbing, rolling, and other movement practices—for cognitive as well as physical health throughout the lifespan.
- Counteract digital and sedentary habits by designing environments (both at home and in schools) that compel and reward movement.
Reduce Stigma and Mislabelling:
- Reframe difficulties with executive function, attention, or regulation—not as moral failings but as neurological differences that can often be improved with the right support.
- Foster supportive and inclusive attitudes so that neurodivergent individuals are not penalised, but empowered.

In conclusion:
Addressing neurodivergent difficulties at their root involves both a return to evidence-based, movement-rich child-rearing practices and a significant uplift in neurodevelopmental literacy across society. By recognising and meeting these underlying neurological needs, we can reduce misdiagnosis, stigma, and negative outcomes—and truly empower minds, one reflex at a time.

6 major topics

Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time: A Journey into Neurodevelopment, Inclusion, and Belonging

Meta Description:
Delve into the world of neurodevelopment and inclusion as Joanne Lockwood explores empowering minds, primitive reflexes, ADHD, movement, and societal transformation with Niki McGlynn. Discover transformative wisdom and actionable insights for a more inclusive world.

Reflecting on my engaging conversation with Niki McGlynn, neurodevelopment therapist and ADHD coach, I felt we unearthed profound insights into what it truly means to empower minds. Our exchange ventured beyond clinical definitions and embraced the nuances of human experience, belonging, and transformation. Through stories of lived neurodivergence, practical science, and a dash of nostalgia, we tackled curiosity-sparking questions about how brains develop, adapt, and sometimes struggle in a rapidly changing world. Below, I invite you to journey with me through the six major themes that emerged, each inviting fresh perspectives on inclusion and the power of understanding our own reflexes—literally and figuratively.

Awakening to Neurodiversity: Stories of Realisation and Diagnosis

Our dialogue opened with personal narratives—shared realisations of undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, first recognised through our children’s journeys but ultimately reflected in our own lives. A recurring theme surfaced: how neurodiversity often travels through families undetected, dismissed as simple stubbornness or lack of effort, rather than a different way of processing the world.

When Niki explored her daughter’s challenges at school, the cascading effect led her to embrace the concept of neurodivergence within herself. I could feel the resonance in my own story, where frustration with numbers and disorganisation had carried the longstanding and unjust label of “stupid”. The lines between parent and child, past and present, blurred as we examined how diagnosis often remains elusive, especially for girls and women whose symptoms have traditionally been minimised or misunderstood.

Have you ever looked back on your schooling or workplace experiences with the fresh clarity of hindsight, suddenly unravelling childhood confusions or adult anxieties as undiagnosed differences?

Primitive Reflexes: The Hidden Architects of Behaviour

The fascination truly ignited when Niki introduced the topic of primitive reflexes—those foundational movement patterns shaping us from conception through our first year of life. Far from academic jargon, these reflexes emerged as invaluable keys to decoding behaviours previously labelled as obstinance, anxiety, or hyperactivity.

We explored how unintegrated fear reflexes like the Moro and fear paralysis reflex can ripple into adulthood, constraining social interaction, eye contact, and even speech. Consider how many times a student who “won’t sit still” or an adult who “overreacts to change” is actually responding to a deeply embedded neurological pattern rather than conscious choice. These reflexes, lying dormant unless activated, became a lens to reconsider what inclusion truly demands—seeing invisible challenges before leaping to judgment.

Does this perspective shift your empathy when encountering someone “difficult” or “different” at work or school?

Movement as Medicine: Recalibrating the Brain

A recurring thread in our conversation was the extraordinary influence of movement and physical engagement on brain development. Niki illuminated how the architecture of the mind is literally built through crawling, climbing, spinning, and all forms of play that modern risk-aversion so often discourages.

Primitive reflexes, she explained, require specific movements to be absorbed fully into the central nervous system. The implications are vast: children who skip stages like crawling or lack time for free movement may face long-term struggles with focus, spatial awareness, and coordination. Adults, too, can retrain their brains—through yoga, dancing, or even the humble act of standing on one leg while brushing teeth.

What daily habits or activities could you revisit, not only for physical health, but for cognitive and emotional development?

The Weight of Expectation: Shame, Stigma, and Social Constructs

Stories of shame and exclusion surfaced as we discussed the mismatch between society’s expectations and the lived realities of neurodivergent people. Niki and I reflected on how traditional systems, from educational phonics to workplace organisation, inadvertently penalise those whose brains are simply wired differently.

I was struck by the sheer volume of negative feedback children with ADHD receive compared to their neurotypical peers. With every “pay attention”, “stop fidgeting”, or “organise yourself”, a narrative of inadequacy is woven—reinforced not only by teachers and families, but by broader social constructs that mistake processing differences for moral failings.

How might the language you use, or the systems you inhabit, unintentionally exclude or wound those whose strengths lie outside conventional norms?

Resilience, Risk, and The Lost Art of Play

Our reminiscences wandered to childhood games—scrambled go-kart races, breathless tree climbs, and endless days of rolling down hills. These weren’t simply fond memories; they were examples of granular, embodied learning that once fostered proprioception, balance, and risk assessment.

Niki highlighted the long-term cost of curbing these experiences in favour of safety—fewer opportunities to develop resilience, a diminished sense of agency, and even the exacerbation of certain neurodevelopmental challenges. A question surfaced repeatedly: Do today’s well-intentioned policies deprive children, and subsequently adults, of developmental stepping stones crucial for empowerment and belonging?

What role should “healthy risk” play in education and community life, and who is included or excluded by its absence?

The Power of Inclusion: Rethinking Belonging and Talent

Throughout our exchange, the underpinning message was one of potential. Far from viewing neurodiversity as a collection of deficits, we championed the hidden strengths it offers—creativity, innovation, entrepreneurial vision, and unconventional problem-solving. Yet, these gifts so often come bundled with obstacles to integration, social acceptance, and mental wellbeing.

We reflected on the tragic consequences of unrecognised neurodivergence, including reduced life expectancy and heightened suicide risk. The path to empowerment, we agreed, lies not in “fixing” people, but in shifting systems, expectations, and attitudes to affirm diverse minds. True inclusion must consider not just participation, but the conditions necessary for thriving.

Could your organisation, school, or community benefit from reframing diversity as a wellspring of untapped ability, rather than a challenge to be managed?

Conclusion: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

To empower minds is to see beneath the surface, nurturing the innate capabilities and adaptive reflexes within us all. My conversation with Niki McGlynn exemplifies how understanding neurodevelopment—through science, movement, forgiveness, and community—can transform inclusion from a buzzword into lived reality. It’s my hope that each reflection here sparks both introspection and action, urging us all to foster environments where everyone, regardless of how their mind works, can not only belong, but truly thrive.

For continued exploration of empowering minds and championing inclusion, you can always stay connected via Inclusion Bites or reach me directly at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk. Together, let’s rewrite the story—one reflex, one conversation, one empowered mind at a time.

Slogans and Image Prompts

Absolutely, here are memorable slogans, quotes, soundbites, and hashtags from the episode “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” on the Inclusion Bites Podcast, complete with detailed AI image prompts. Each is crafted to translate well onto mugs, t-shirts, stickers, or digital graphics, and to spark conversations about inclusion, neurodiversity, and empowerment.

1. Slogan:

“Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time”

Image Prompt:
A vibrant illustration featuring diverse people of varying ages and backgrounds, each outlined in lively colours, performing dynamic movements (crawling, stretching, dancing). Ethereal, swirling patterns emanate from their bodies to suggest brain connections and positive energy. Background should be uplifting with warm, hope-filled tones; the slogan “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time” is centred in bold, modern lettering. Style is inclusive, energetic, and a bit playful—perfect for a mug or t-shirt.

2. Quote:

“We’re wired for survival, not for happiness.”

Image Prompt:
A stylised silhouette of a human head filled with two distinct halves: one side with ancient, cave-painting motifs and the other with serene, modern scenes (e.g., meditating, reading, connecting). The neural pathway lines divide the illustration, reinforcing the ‘wiring’ aspect. Place the quote along the dividing line with striking, thoughtful typography. Muted earth tones contrasted with soft pastels for a sense of time’s evolution—ideal for a sticker or notebook.

3. Soundbite:

“Movement builds your brain.”

Image Prompt:
A lively, semi-abstract brain illustration where neural networks are depicted as colourful dancers, gymnasts, and climbers moving along the synapses. The background has flowing lines and kinetic energy. “Movement builds your brain” appears in handwritten script, as if in motion, curving along the image. The colour palette is invigorating: blues, greens, and oranges for a dynamic, fresh feel — great for a gym water bottle, t-shirt, or sticker.

4. Hashtag:

#InclusionIgnited

Image Prompt:
A powerful typographic composition: the hashtag #InclusionIgnited, formed from a mosaic of faces, hands, and diverse silhouettes, each subtly glowing with different hues to symbolise inclusion lighting the way. Background resembles a gentle sunrise or an ignited spark. Bold, eye-catching, optimistic—designed for a laptop sticker or hoodie.

5. Quote:

“We uncover the unseen, challenge the status quo, and share stories that resonate.”

Image Prompt:
A magnifying glass spotlighting intricate, colourful patchwork patterns beneath a grey surface, representing hidden stories. Around the edges, diverse faces and hands reach inwards, their individual colours blending into the central pattern. The quote arches above and below in elegant, inclusive font. Warm, inviting—perfect for a poster, tote bag, or large mug.

6. Slogan:

“Use it or lose it!”

Image Prompt:
A playful, motivational design showing a range of daily activities and movements: dancing, yoga, walking, and balancing on one leg. Each action is drawn in simple, bold lines with animated accents like arrows or swishing lines indicating movement. The slogan pops in the centre, in a blocky, playful font with a winking emoji subtly beside it. Bright colours encourage a proactive vibe—ideal for a fridge magnet, mug, or fitness tee.

7. Hashtag:

#SparkOfInclusion

Image Prompt:
A spark or burst of light composed of tiny figures holding hands, forming a circle—the spark radiates outward, touching abstract representations of workplaces, schools, and communities. The hashtag is superimposed in clear, clean font atop the spark. Uplifting and bright, with a sense of warmth and community—excellent for social media tiles and stickers.

8. Quote:

“Neurodivergent people are incredibly important in moving society forward.”

Image Prompt:
A progression of silhouetted figures evolving from simple, monochrome forms to vibrant, distinctive shapes, each figure with neuro-symbols (e.g., synapses, puzzle pieces, lightbulbs). The background nods to progress—a subtle upward arrow or path. The quote runs beneath with dignified, modern lettering. Inspiring and respectful—suitable for a notebook, sweatshirt, or wall art.

All these slogans and visuals are rooted in the podcast’s content, celebrating neurodiversity, inclusion, and the transformative power of movement and awareness. They will look fantastic on merchandise, raising visibility and starting valuable conversations everywhere they go.

Inclusion Bites Spotlight

Niki McGlynn, our guest on Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time, this month’s featured episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, offers a thought-provoking exploration into the world of neurodevelopment and inclusive practice. As a neurodevelopmental therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach, Niki dedicates her expertise to unlocking human potential through the often-overlooked domain of movement and primitive reflexes.

Niki’s journey is deeply personal, shaped through first-hand experience of undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, both in herself and her daughter. This lived reality led her to demystify and translate the science of neurodevelopment into accessible, life-changing strategies for individuals navigating neurodiversity. She casts a spotlight on the crucial, yet widely ignored, role of primitive reflexes—movement patterns established in early life but too frequently left unaddressed, resulting in barriers to learning, inclusion, and wellbeing across the lifespan.

Throughout the conversation, Niki dismantles myths about dyslexia, ADHD, and executive dysfunction, shifting the narrative from perceived ‘failures’ or ‘laziness’ to a nuanced understanding of innate, survival-driven reflexes and neurological processing. Her insights into the intersection of movement, neurodevelopment, and emotional safety not only examine underlying causes for common struggles in education and the workplace, but also propose practical approaches to recalibrating movement, rebuilding confidence, and enabling authentic belonging.

Niki’s vision is one of empowerment—creating accessible pathways for individuals of all ages to integrate, not mask, their differences, and thus experience true inclusion. Her perspective underscores the power of movement, the need for systemic understanding, and the vital role of compassionate support in challenging longstanding biases about ability and behaviour.

In this episode, Niki invites us to rethink what it means to thrive. She equips us with knowledge and empathy to create spaces that foster safety and openness—not just for neurodivergent individuals, but for everyone navigating a rapidly changing world. Join us as we illuminate the hidden foundations that shape minds, behaviours, and ultimately, a more inclusive future.

Catch the full conversation on The Inclusion Bites Podcast and step into a dialogue that challenges, informs, and inspires change—one reflex at a time.

YouTube Description

Unlocking Your Brain’s Hidden Power: Why Movement is the Missing Key to Inclusion

What if everything you thought about learning, inclusion, and neurodiversity was missing one crucial link—movement? In this episode of the Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood dives into an eye-opening conversation with Niki McGlynn, neurodevelopment therapist, ADHD coach, and specialist in primitive reflexes.

Discover why so many children and adults find everyday tasks—like reading, writing, and simply sitting still—so challenging, and how our earliest movements shape lifelong abilities. Learn how retained primitive reflexes impact executive function, sensory processing, social interaction, and emotional safety. Niki breaks down the science behind movement-based therapies and shares practical strategies for recalibrating your brain at any age.

Key Insights:

Primitive reflexes aren’t just baby milestones—they profoundly shape our ability to thrive.
Undiagnosed or misunderstood neurodivergence often leads to shame, frustration, and a feeling of not belonging.
Movement is the foundational tool for developing focus, balance, memory, and even emotional resilience.
Tackling retained reflexes can release “brakes” on your potential—regardless of whether you’re a pupil struggling to learn, or an adult facing sensory overwhelm.
Inclusion must go beyond awareness and labels, empowering everyone to unlock their unique strengths.

How will you think differently?
You’ll recognise neurodivergence as a unique wiring, not a deficit.
How will you feel?
Liberated from judgement—ready to embrace practical, positive change.
How might you act?
By moving more, supporting diverse ways of learning, and advocating for deeper understanding in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Take Action:

Notice where struggle might really be a reflex issue, not a character flaw.
Try integrating movement into daily routines—at any age.
Challenge bias, advocate for better support, and see every brain as “wired for survival, not happiness”.
Subscribe, share, and keep the #Inclusion conversation going!

Listen and ignite your understanding: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen
Join the changemakers at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk and be part of building a more inclusive world.

#InclusionBites #Neurodiversity #PrimitiveReflexes #Empowerment #ADHD #MovementMatters #Belonging #MentalHealth #DisruptTheNorm #InclusiveCulture

10 Question Quiz

Quiz: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time — Understanding the Host’s Insights

1. According to the host, Joanne Lockwood, what is the overarching goal of the Inclusion Bites podcast?

A) To debate education policies
B) To ignite the spark of inclusion and inspire action towards societal transformation
C) To teach neurodevelopmental biology
D) To review literature on workplace management

2. What personal experience did Joanne cite as part of her journey into understanding neurodiversity?

A) Her own diagnosis as a child
B) A friend’s recommendation
C) Her daughter's dyslexia diagnosis highlighting her own similar challenges
D) An academic assignment

3. Joanne mentions that her main difficulty with processing is:

A) Dyscalculia, specifically not being able to do numbers
B) Visual disturbance
C) Short-term memory loss
D) Dyspraxia

4. In discussing dyslexic learning strategies, Joanne states that:

A) Phonics are ideal for people with dyslexia
B) Phonics are often unhelpful and shape-recognition is better
C) Only oral teaching methods work
D) Learning foreign languages is easier for dyslexic students

5. What term does Joanne use to describe the advanced perception some dyslexics have when reading?

A) Detail reading
B) Linear reading
C) Speed reading
D) Surface reading

6. When reflecting on childhood experiences, Joanne describes which phenomenon relating to ADHD?

A) Only hyperactivity is present
B) Sudden intellectual bursts
C) Rejection sensitive dysphoria and the perception of not fitting in
D) Escapist tendencies

7. According to Joanne, what societal impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on children’s primitive reflexes and sense of safety?

A) No discernible impact
B) Made the world feel unsafe, affecting development
C) Reduced the need for physical play
D) Increased academic focus

8. Joanne cites which modern change as potentially detrimental to neurodevelopment in children?

A) More homework assignments
B) Less time moving due to being placed on their backs or in car seats, inhibiting movement
C) Longer holidays
D) Better nutrition

9. What lesson does Joanne extract from her observations on age-related decline in physical and cognitive faculties?

A) Ageing cannot be mitigated
B) Only medication helps
C) Movement and activity sustain and even improve brain function and balance
D) Watching television is the best remedy

10. To foster a sense of inclusion and belonging, Joanne encourages listeners to:

A) Keep opinions private
B) Subscribe and engage with Inclusion Bites, sharing experiences and insights
C) Focus only on academic solutions
D) Ignore societal issues

Answer Key & Rationale

1. B — Joanne stresses throughout her introduction and outro that the aim is to “ignite the spark of inclusion” and “drive societal transformation”, making (B) the clear choice.

2. C — She recounts the revelation following her daughter’s diagnosis with dyslexia, which brought her own experiences to light.

3. A — Joanne candidly shares she is “dyscalculic” and “can’t do numbers at all”, highlighting a specific processing difficulty.

4. B — She explains that phonics are not suitable for dyslexic learners and that recognising the shape of the word is a better approach.

5. C — Joanne refers to the way dyslexics gather meaning quickly from texts as “speed reading”.

6. C — She discusses rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), a concept tied to ADHD which creates a perception of being rejected or not fitting in.

7. B — Joanne observes that the COVID-19 pandemic made the world feel less safe for children, undermining developmental reflexes.

8. B — She highlights the limitation of babies being kept on their backs or in car seats as a factor restricting necessary movement for neurodevelopment.

9. C — Joanne underscores the importance of movement—activities like yoga, tai chi, and dancing—for ageing brains and bodies.

10. B — She explicitly encourages audience engagement, sharing, and dialogue to build inclusive cultures and communities.

Summary Paragraph

Joanne Lockwood, host of the Inclusion Bites podcast, articulates a bold vision for igniting inclusion and societal transformation through open conversation and shared experience. Drawing on her own journey and her daughter's diagnosis, Joanne foregrounds the importance of recognising individual processing differences, such as dyscalculia and dyslexia, and supports learning strategies, like shape-recognition over phonics, that align with neurodivergent strengths such as speed reading. Her insights into ADHD encompass the nuanced emotional landscape of rejection sensitive dysphoria, while her observations of post-pandemic life highlight the developmental risks faced by children in a less physically engaging environment. Joanne champions the necessity of early developmental movement and continuing activity into older age to sustain cognitive and physical health. Ultimately, she calls for community engagement and the sharing of diverse experiences as essential acts in cultivating belonging and advancing inclusion for all.

Book Outline

Book Outline: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time — Breaking Through Barriers with Neurodevelopment

Potential Book Titles:

Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time: Unlocking Potential Through Neurodevelopment
Reflexes Rewired: Movement, Neurodiversity, and the Path to Inclusion
Primitive Reflexes, Modern Lives: Rethinking Neurodevelopmental Challenges

Preface

A personal journey through unrecognised neurodiversity, the transformative power of movement, and hope for a more inclusive approach to developmental differences.

Chapter 1: The Hidden World of Neurodevelopment

Subheadings:
- The Undiagnosed Generation
- Family Discoveries: When Children Lead the Way
- The Path to Realisation
Summary:
Introduction to the experience of growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD, recognising the pattern through the diagnosis of a child, and the commonality of delayed understanding in families. Discusses the emotional impact and the impetus for seeking solutions beyond conventional school interventions.
Quote:
"It's very common now: parents get their children diagnosed and then recognise their own issues."

Chapter 2: The Struggle Within — Living with Unseen Differences

Subheadings:
- Coping Mechanisms and Survival
- The Frustration of Not Fitting
- Perceptions of Stupidity and Failure
Summary:
Explores the difficulties of growing up neurodivergent without support, the sense of difference, frustration, and internalised shame. Details on struggling with traditional learning methods and the confusion faced by both child and parent.
Real-Life Example:
The struggle to teach a son the alphabet, misinterpreting neurodiverse learning as defiance, and the emotional toll on family dynamics.

Chapter 3: Reframing Learning — Movement, Not Memorisation

Subheadings:
- Why Phonics Fail for Some Learners
- The Power of Pattern Recognition
- Reading, Not Reciting
Summary:
Critique of traditional reading methods for dyslexic individuals, highlighting the advantage of the pattern-based recognition. The lived experience of adapting to personal learning styles, reconciling differences with standard educational practice.

Chapter 4: Emotional Echoes — The Social Cost of Neurodiversity

Subheadings:
- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria
- Social Misperceptions and Memory Distortion
- The Masking Game
Summary:
Delve into rejection sensitive dysphoria and the distortion between social reality and perception. The lasting effects on self-esteem, memory, and engagement in social contexts.
Reflection Question:
Have you ever felt out of place, even when included? What shaped that perception?

Chapter 5: Primitive Reflexes — The Unseen Drivers

Subheadings:
- What Are Primitive Reflexes?
- Fear Reflexes and Their Manifestations
- Life with Unintegrated Reflexes
Summary:
Introduction to primitive reflexes, their biological purpose, and the consequences when they fail to integrate. Focused on fear paralysis and Moro reflexes, explains their tangible effects on social engagement and regulation.
Diagram Suggestion:
Flowchart of primitive reflexes and associated behaviours.

Chapter 6: How the World Shapes the Brain — Movement as Medicine

Subheadings:
- The Modern Developmental Environment
- The Role of Movement in Brain Growth
- Babies, Car Seats, and Changing Prams
Summary:
Analyses how 21st-century child-rearing practices impact the natural integration of primitive reflexes and overall neurodevelopment, with a call for more movement-rich environments.
Quote:
"The less you move, the less your brain develops. The more you move, the more your brain develops."

Chapter 7: Connections and Collapses — The Power of Neck Reflexes

Subheadings:
- The Spectrum of Neck Reflexes
- The Limits of Executive Function
- Practical Implications: Handwriting and Balance
Summary:
Exploration of neck reflexes and their role in skills such as reading, writing, tracking, and spatial orientation. Illustrates how retained reflexes interfere with everyday activities and learning.
Diagram Suggestion:
Visual of how unintegrated neck reflexes affect posture and movement.

Chapter 8: Fidgety Bodies, Distracted Minds

Subheadings:
- The Spinal Galant Reflex and Restlessness
- Sensory Overload and Listening Challenges
- Misunderstood Behaviours in the Classroom
Summary:
Discusses why children (and adults) fidget, struggle to sit still, and how this physically manifests due to retained spinal reflexes. Explains why traditional discipline often fails and why movement aids focus.
Real-Life Example:
Distinction between choosing to fidget and being neurologically compelled to move, such as the inability to sit still in class.

Chapter 9: Healing Through Movement — Recalibration at Any Age

Subheadings:
- Movement-Based Interventions
- Integration, Not Elimination
- Exercises for Everyday Life
Summary:
Presents the possibility and methods for integrating primitive reflexes at any stage of life, from children to adults. Overview of movement programmes, everyday activities, and how even adults can benefit from “recalibrating” their brains.
Exercise Box:
Simple daily movements or yoga postures to encourage brain-body integration.

Chapter 10: Risk, Resilience, and the Loss of Play

Subheadings:
- The Role of Physical Risk in Development
- Societal Shifts and Safety Culture
- When Play Disappears
Summary:
Explores the consequences of a risk-averse culture on development, memory of childhood play, adventure, and injury as critical to learning resilience and neurological growth.
Anecdote:
Stories of childhood go-karts, hills, and the lessons learned from falling and getting back up.

Chapter 11: Beyond Childhood — Ageing, Balance, and Brain Health

Subheadings:
- Age-Related Neural Decline
- Maintaining Brain Fitness Through Physical Activity
- Strategies for Longevity
Summary:
Considers how ageing affects reflex integration, balance, and cognitive sharpness. Presents strategies to preserve these faculties, such as yoga, tai chi, and functional exercises.
Action Step:
Tips for incorporating balancing exercises and movement into daily routines as one ages.

Chapter 12: Towards Greater Inclusivity — Reframing Neurodiversity

Subheadings:
- Redefining “Normal”
- The Dangers of Shame and Moral Judgement
- Celebrating Difference
Summary:
Reflections on societal attitudes towards neurodiversity, the harmful effects of shame, and the need for supportive, inclusive frameworks that recognise difference as potential, not deficit.
Quote:
"We associate so many of those things with a moral failing... Actually, it's a processing issue, a neurological issue."

Chapter 13: The Entrepreneurial and Creative Edge

Subheadings:
- Failures as Foundations
- Innovation from Difference
- The Value of Lateral Thinking
Summary:
Connection drawn between neurodiversity, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Discusses the research suggesting links between neurodivergence and creativity, resilience, and unconventional success.

Chapter 14: Implementing Change — Insights for Families, Schools, and Organisations

Subheadings:
- Better Diagnosis and Understanding
- Schools as Hubs for Inclusive Practice
- Supporting Neurodivergent Adults
Summary:
Practical, system-level recommendations for greater inclusion across the lifespan, with particular attention to education and workplace adaptation.
Reflection Questions:
How inclusive are your environments? What adaptive practices could you implement?

Conclusion: A Call to Move, Accept, and Include

Summary:
Reiterates that difference is valuable, integration is possible at any age, and that greater awareness and movement-based intervention can radically improve lives. Reframes neurodiversity as a continuum of potential rather than a set of deficits.
Call to Action:
Encourage readers to champion neurodiversity through curiosity, acceptance, and the promotion of movement in daily life. Direct readers to resources, including support networks, further reading, and professional organisations.

Supplementary Material

Appendix A: Further Reading and Resources
Appendix B: Sample Reflex Integration Exercises (illustrated)
Appendix C: List of Support Organisations and Practitioners
Glossary: Key Terms in Neurodevelopment and Reflex Integration

Feedback and Refinement Process

Seek review from neurodevelopment specialists, educators, and neurodivergent individuals to refine accuracy and accessibility.
Solicit test readers from both lay and expert backgrounds for clarity and impact.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1: Personal narrative of discovery and the systemic issue of missed diagnoses in families.
Chapter 2: The lived psychosocial challenges of undiagnosed neurodiversity.
Chapter 3: Critique of educational methods and personal adaptation strategies.
Chapter 4: Exploration of the emotional side of neurodivergence, especially regarding social experiences.
Chapter 5: Foundational explanation of primitive reflexes and their unrecognised influence on behaviour.
Chapter 6: Societal changes undermining healthy neurodevelopment.
Chapter 7: Impact of specific reflexes on learning and coordination.
Chapter 8: Behavioral manifestations and neurological causes behind restlessness.
Chapter 9: Pathways toward adult healing and ongoing recalibration.
Chapter 10: The developmental necessity of risk and unstructured play.
Chapter 11: Maintaining neurodevelopmental health through the lifespan.
Chapter 12: Reclaiming difference as strength and countering stigma.
Chapter 13: The upsides of neurodivergence — creativity and entrepreneurship.
Chapter 14: Broad recommendations for cultivating inclusion in home, school, and work.

Visual Aids and Interactivity Notes:

Diagrams of reflexes, neural pathways, and body-brain integration.
Reflection questions and exercises at end of each chapter for reader engagement.
Suggested spaces for journaling insights or progress on exercises.

End of Outline

Maxims to live by…

Empowering Minds: Maxims for Inclusive and Neurodevelopmental Wellbeing

Recognise Diversity in All Forms of Learning and Being.
Understand that everyone’s neurological makeup is distinctive; avoid assumptions and embrace alternative ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world.
Value Movement as Fundamental to Brain Development.
Prioritise physical movement throughout life—at every age and stage—to support cognitive growth, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing.
Celebrate Lateral Thinking and Alternative Approaches.
Appreciate those who view the world differently; inventive and diverse perspectives are vital for creativity and societal progression.
Seek Understanding Before Judgement.
When confronted with behaviour that appears challenging or different, first look beneath the surface—consider underlying processing or neurological differences before passing judgement.
Challenge Stigma Surrounding Neurodivergence.
Reject the notion that executive function difficulties, social anxieties, or sensory sensitivities reflect moral failings; strive for empathy and remove culpability from diversity.
Prioritise Integration, Not Suppression, of Reflexes and Behaviours.
Rather than striving to “fix” differences, focus on movement and strategies that harmonise natural reflexes, allowing for fuller participation—irrespective of age.
Foster Resilience Through Risk and Experience.
Permit yourself and others—especially children—to experience reasonable risks and possible failure; true learning, adaptability, and strength arise from overcoming challenges.
Acknowledge the Social Construct of “Normal.”
Question what society deems typical; remember that fitting in is less important than belonging as your authentic self.
Invest in Lifelong Learning and Adaptation.
Continue to stretch beyond your comfort zone, both physically and mentally; recalibrate your senses and routines to meet new stages of life with vigour.
Make Space for Restorative Movement—at Every Age.
Incorporate intentioned movement such as yoga, dance, or climbing to revive both mind and body—recognising that cognitive fitness thrives alongside physical agility.
Champion the Power of Community and Shared Understanding.
Cultivate communities of support and open discussion; normalise conversations around neurodiversity, anxiety, and inclusion to reduce isolation and shame.
Measure Worth by Engagement, Not Output.
Value participation, curiosity, and engagement over traditional markers of achievement—especially in environments structured for only one type of mind.
Embrace the Present, Learn from the Past.
Whether reflecting on childhood experiences, parenting, or professional life, reframe past challenges as opportunities for empathy and personal growth.
Remember: Inclusion and Belonging Are Acts, Not Labels.
Work actively to ensure everyone has the opportunity not only to belong but to thrive—by adjusting environments, practices, and expectations, not people.
Move Through Life with Compassion—For Yourself and Others.
Practice self-kindness when facing challenges, and extend the same compassion to others wrestling with visible or invisible barriers.

Let these principles guide your path towards empowerment, inclusion, and a deeper connection with yourself and the world.

Extended YouTube Description

Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time | Inclusion Bites Podcast Ep. 166
Unlocking Neurodiversity, Primitive Reflexes & Movement-Based Therapy

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction: Welcome to Inclusion Bites
01:03 – Meet Niki McGlynn: Neurodevelopment Therapist & ADHD Coach
02:44 – Personal Journeys: Dyslexia, ADHD, and Family Impact
07:16 – Phonics, Reading, and How Neurodivergent Minds Learn
11:02 – Understanding Primitive Reflexes: What They Are and Why They Matter
15:37 – Reflexes, Sensory Processing, and School Behaviour
23:21 – The Role of Movement in Brain Development
29:42 – Recalibrating as Adults: Reflex Integration Techniques
34:04 – Movement, Ageing, and Cognitive Health
37:14 – COVID-19, Safety, and Developmental Impact
42:18 – Risk, Play, and Evolution of Neurodivergence
46:25 – Gender, Neurodiversity, and Masking
55:07 – ADHD, Shame, and Societal Constructs
56:08 – Connect with Niki & Conclusion

Description:
Welcome to Episode 166 of the Inclusion Bites Podcast: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time. In this impactful episode, host Joanne Lockwood sits down with renowned neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach Niki McGlynn. Together, they unpack the transformative role of primitive reflexes, neurodiversity, and movement in human development, education, and workplace inclusion.

Key Topics Covered:

Primitive Reflexes Explained: Discover what primitive reflexes are, how they shape social behaviour, processing, and learning—especially among neurodivergent individuals.
Personal Stories: Niki and Joanne share how undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD in their lives and families led them to unlock better outcomes through neurodevelopment and movement strategies.
Movement-Based Therapy: Learn why physical activity underpins cognitive development, and how tailored therapies (like reflex integration) can be life-changing for children and adults alike.
School and Learning Challenges: Gain insight into how traditional phonics-based teaching can disadvantage dyslexic children, and how alternative approaches tap into their strengths.
Social Inclusion and Executive Function: Explore the challenges of masking, rejection sensitivity, and coping mechanisms that neurodiverse people deploy in social, educational, and professional contexts.
Ageing, Balance, and Lifelong Brain Health: Find out how everyday activities—from crawling as a baby to dance, yoga, and even standing on one leg—can impact brain plasticity, confidence, and physical well-being throughout life.
Impact of COVID-19: Examine how pandemic-driven risk aversion, reduced social contact, and shifts in daily routines have affected neurodevelopment across all ages.
Call for Inclusion & Action: Understand why destigmatising neurodiversity and adapting workplaces/schools for sensory and cognitive needs is woven into the fabric of real inclusion.

Who Should Watch?
This video is a must for HR professionals, educators, parents, SEN (Special Educational Needs) specialists, diversity and inclusion champions, and anyone passionate about neurodiversity, inclusive education, and workplace belonging. Whether you are seeking practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent pupils, tips for adult reflex integration, or keen to foster a genuinely inclusive culture, this episode delivers actionable insights and deep empathy.

Key Takeaways for Your Practice and Strategy

Shift your approach to neurodiversity from “deficits” to strengths—build environments where all can thrive.
Harness movement and reflex integration for improved executive function, focus, and social engagement.
Cultivate risk-taking and resilience in both children and adults to future-proof learning, innovation, and mental health.
Embed trauma- and sensory-aware practices in classrooms and team settings for greater belonging.

Call to Action:
✔️ Like, Subscribe, and Hit the Bell for more cutting-edge conversations on inclusion, neurodiversity, and positive people experiences.
🌐 Visit seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen for more resources and to join the community.
💬 Share your thoughts below: How has neurodiversity shaped your journey? What movement strategies have worked for you or your organisation?
📧 Connect or pitch your story: Email jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
🎥 Watch our next episode: [Link to related episode]

Hashtags:
#InclusionBites #Neurodiversity #PrimitiveReflexes #ADHD #Dyslexia #MovementTherapy #Inclusion #Belonging #WorkplaceInclusion #SpecialEducation #SeeChangeHappen #DiversityMatters #BrainHealth #ChildDevelopment #Wellbeing

Empower minds. Nurture belonging. Ignite inclusive change—one conversation at a time.

Substack Post

Movement, Mindset, and the Art of Belonging

Why is it that some people thrive in learning and social environments, while others—no less able—seem perpetually out of step, labelled “awkward”, “unfocused”, or even “challenging”? If there’s one question I encounter again and again in my work on inclusion, it’s that: how do we create cultures where every mind is empowered to belong, participate, and excel—regardless of difference?

This week, I'm thrilled to invite you into a conversation that tackles this puzzle from an unexpected angle: through the science of movement and primitive reflexes. In Episode 166 of the Inclusion Bites Podcast, “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time”, I sit down with the brilliant Niki McGlynn—a neurodevelopment therapist, trainer, and ADHD coach—whose work illuminates a crucial, often overlooked foundation for equity: our bodies and their patterns of movement.

If you’re an HR professional, D&I lead, talent specialist, or L&D practitioner, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss. Unlocking the secret to belonging, it turns out, might lie not just in policy or process, but in re-tuning how our brains and bodies work together.

Unlocking the Hidden Wiring of Inclusion

In our fast-paced, hyper-cognitive work cultures, we tend to prize intellectual agility and overlook how much our sense of competence, inclusion, and well-being is hardwired—literally—by neurological development. Niki and I discuss her journey from undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia to championing a practical, movement-based approach to neurodiversity and inclusion.

We delve into:

Why so many “invisible” struggles—difficulty organising, reading, managing sensory overload—aren’t failures of will, but echoes of primitive reflexes not fully integrated in childhood.
The impact of modern child-rearing and schooling (think buggies, car seats, desk-based learning) on neurodevelopment, belonging, and academic success.
How trauma, stress, and events like the Covid pandemic can “re-awaken” ancient reflexes, undermining not just children’s, but adults’ capacity to adapt, focus, and connect.
Practical pathways for recalibrating these reflexes, even in later life—and what this means for supporting diverse talent in the workplace.

Niki’s lived experience and clinical insight unspool many myths and open new vistas for seeing neurodivergence not as deficit, but as difference—with unique strengths and needs.

Reflections at the Intersection of Neuroscience and Belonging

One of the most striking revelations from my conversation with Niki is how deeply interwoven movement, self-regulation, and inclusion truly are. As someone who’s spent years advocating for environments where everyone can belong and contribute, I found myself re-examining received wisdom about learning difficulties, executive function, and even “acceptable behaviour”.

The stories we shared—about children misunderstood or labelled as “problematic”, about adults masking their differences, about educators and parents feeling helpless—will resonate with anyone responsible for culture, recruitment, or learning. So much of what we call “performance” is actually about how safe, organised, and connected we feel in our bodies.

And crucially: there are answers. Simple, accessible strategies—sometimes as basic as intentional movement, recalibrating our habits, or making room for fidgeting rather than suppressing it—can transform a person’s capacity to learn, socialise, and lead.

Seeds for Change: Practical Insights from Niki McGlynn

Here are some of the practical gems you’ll glean from this episode:

Reframe “Behaviour” Through a Neurodevelopmental Lens
- Many so-called “bad behaviours”—inattention, fidgeting, emotional reactivity—reflect unintegrated primitive reflexes, not character flaws. Revisiting your assumptions can shift your approach from discipline to support and empowerment.
Movement Is More Than Exercise—It’s Brain Food
- Everyday activities such as walking, climbing, crawling (yes, even for adults!), dancing, or yoga are not ancillary but central to healthy neurodevelopment. Encouraging movement at every age is an equity intervention—especially for neurodivergent individuals.
Embrace Sensory Diversity in Your Environment
- Sensitivity to noise, lighting, fabric, or changes in routine is not mere fussiness. Adjusting workplace and classroom environments—offering flexible seating, listening supports, or tolerance for “fidgeting”—fosters genuine belonging.
Trauma and Stress Can Trigger Primitive Reflexes
- Social anxiety, selective mutism, and meltdowns may have roots in ancient survival responses, especially after periods of uncertainty like the pandemic. Understanding this helps us provide compassion and support, not stigma.
Integration Is Possible at Any Age—But Culture is Key
- Whether through dedicated programmes or simple daily practice, it’s never too late to encourage nervous system “rewiring”. Organisations that create safe spaces for movement, self-expression, and difference are leagues ahead in nurturing diverse talent.

A Peek Behind the Curtain

Curious about what this all looks and sounds like in real life? Before diving into the full episode, I encourage you to watch this short audiogram—a highlight reel capturing one of the episode’s most thought-provoking exchanges.

Just a minute, but packed with insights that might well change the way you see yourself, your colleagues, and your workplace. Have a watch, and see if it sparks a moment of recognition. Watch the highlight now

Take Action and Tune In

Ready to reimagine how we design, recruit, and foster environments where everyone can move, learn, and belong? I invite you to listen to the full episode of “Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time”.

Tune in to the episode here

If you find value in this conversation—as I sincerely hope you will—please share the episode with your fellow HR professionals, educators, managers and networks. The more we amplify these insights, the closer we come to equity not just in rhetoric, but in lived reality.

And if you want to connect further or have a story to share, I’d love to hear from you directly: jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.

Food for Thought

If inclusion begins with understanding and supporting the hidden wiring that shapes how we move, think, and relate—how might you, in your role, shift your lens from “what’s wrong” to “what’s different, and how can I help”?

Could a simple change—greater permission for movement, new rituals in meetings, a more sensory-friendly space—be the lever that unlocks belonging for someone on your team?

Let’s keep exploring, keep moving, and keep empowering minds—one conversation, and one reflex, at a time.

Warmly,
Joanne Lockwood
Host of the Inclusion Bites Podcast
The Inclusive Culture Expert at SEE Change Happen

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Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

Don't have time for the full episode?

Highlights

How it unfolded

Full transcript

More from this recording

Discover the Science of Movement, Reflexes, and Belonging

A Call to Action

Key Pain Points and Challenges Raised in the Episode

Approaches to Address Each Challenge

Empowering Action Steps for Listeners

Frequently Asked Questions Inspired by Episode 166: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time

The Problem: Unseen Barriers Lurking Beneath the Surface

Enter the Science: Primitive Reflexes and the Movement Blueprint

The Agitation: Inclusion that Ignores the Body is Incomplete

Actionable Steps: From Awareness to Empowerment

1. Educate Yourself and Your Community

2. Prioritise Movement—At Any Age

3. Challenge Shame and Redefine Behaviour

4. Design Truly Inclusive Environments

5. Seek Support and Community

The Inclusion Bites Challenge

Key Insights for Senior Leaders, HR & EDI Professionals

1️⃣ Neurodiversity Is Rooted in Early Development — And It’s Often Invisible

2️⃣ Movement and Environment Matter More Than We Realise

3️⃣ Masking and Late Diagnosis — Especially Among Women

4️⃣ Reframing Labelled ‘Failures’ as Neurodevelopmental Gaps

5️⃣ Movement, Not Just Mindfulness, Promotes Workplace Well-being

Recommendations — What To Do Differently

Social Media Hashtags

Why Listen:

Closing Summary and Call to Action

Outro

Root Cause Analysis – The Five Whys

Summary of Root Causes

Potential Solutions

Awakening to Neurodiversity: Stories of Realisation and Diagnosis

Primitive Reflexes: The Hidden Architects of Behaviour

Movement as Medicine: Recalibrating the Brain

The Weight of Expectation: Shame, Stigma, and Social Constructs

Resilience, Risk, and The Lost Art of Play

The Power of Inclusion: Rethinking Belonging and Talent

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4. Hashtag:

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Quiz: Empowering Minds, One Reflex at a Time — Understanding the Host’s Insights

1. According to the host, Joanne Lockwood, what is the overarching goal of the Inclusion Bites podcast?

2. What personal experience did Joanne cite as part of her journey into understanding neurodiversity?

3. Joanne mentions that her main difficulty with processing is:

4. In discussing dyslexic learning strategies, Joanne states that:

5. What term does Joanne use to describe the advanced perception some dyslexics have when reading?

6. When reflecting on childhood experiences, Joanne describes which phenomenon relating to ADHD?

7. According to Joanne, what societal impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on children’s primitive reflexes and sense of safety?

8. Joanne cites which modern change as potentially detrimental to neurodevelopment in children?

9. What lesson does Joanne extract from her observations on age-related decline in physical and cognitive faculties?

10. To foster a sense of inclusion and belonging, Joanne encourages listeners to:

Answer Key & Rationale

Summary Paragraph

Potential Book Titles:

Preface

Chapter 1: The Hidden World of Neurodevelopment

Chapter 2: The Struggle Within — Living with Unseen Differences

Chapter 3: Reframing Learning — Movement, Not Memorisation

Chapter 4: Emotional Echoes — The Social Cost of Neurodiversity

Chapter 5: Primitive Reflexes — The Unseen Drivers

Chapter 6: How the World Shapes the Brain — Movement as Medicine

Chapter 7: Connections and Collapses — The Power of Neck Reflexes

Chapter 8: Fidgety Bodies, Distracted Minds

Chapter 9: Healing Through Movement — Recalibration at Any Age

Chapter 10: Risk, Resilience, and the Loss of Play

Chapter 11: Beyond Childhood — Ageing, Balance, and Brain Health

Chapter 12: Towards Greater Inclusivity — Reframing Neurodiversity

Chapter 13: The Entrepreneurial and Creative Edge

Chapter 14: Implementing Change — Insights for Families, Schools, and Organisations

Conclusion: A Call to Move, Accept, and Include