Neurodevelopmental Therapy is the use of co-ordinated and patterned movements to improve the function of the brain. Its aim is to improve learning by dealing with problems at the roots, rather than giving short term solutions or teaching compensatory skills. This is because the exercises and activities encourage maturity of the nervous system; partly by improving sensory awareness and partly by lessening the impact of any retained neonatal reflexes so that the child becomes more open to learning. The movements used often reflect those done naturally by a baby and young child, giving the brain a 2nd chance at developing and strengthening needed connections.
Neonatal reflexes are automatic movements and changes that happen in a baby, in order to help him to survive, grow and develop. Some of these reflexes are familiar to parents, for example as soon as you put something in a newborn's mouth he starts to suck - you have not had to teach him this ability! Usually these reflexes take a back seat (are inhibited) by the time a child is a year old and replaced by postural reflexes which remain for life. If however children fail to gain this control fully over their neonatal reflexes, they become known as retained neonatal reflexes, and the postural reflexes do not develop fully.
Some clues that your child has retained neonatal reflexes which are now affecting the ability to function at school and at home are: not having crawled normally, being a "too good" passive baby, learning to walk or talk later than peers, difficulties learning to swim or riding a bike or tie shoelaces, not wanting to separate from you. At school he may have difficulty sitting for any length of time and learning to write and read is more challenging for him than others. He may be disorganized, doesn't follow instructions well or is hyperactive. Some of these children are actually good at sports although only the ones that require fast movements. Others are overly clumsy or awkward and avoid physical activity. Socially they may have difficulties making friends, may be too impulsive, or very shy.
You can find out more about one of the key programs used at this website
www.movetolearn.com.auSTARTING APRIL 2010 STARTING APRIL 2010 STARTING APRIL 2010 STARTING APRIL 2010
Neurodevelopmental therapy will be incorporated into a
FOOD MOOD MIND program to encourage quicker growth and improvement in yoru child's abilities. The FOOD MOOD MIND program involves assessment in neurodevelopment
and nutritional status. Nutrition works hand in hand with neurodevelopmental therapy by addressing the biochemical imbalances that impact on learning and behaviour. Allergies and nutritional deficiencies can often be misdiagnosed as behavioural disorders. Addressing underlying causes leads to improvements in health, behaviour and concentration.
FEES2 hour neurodevelopmental and nutritional assessment $150
(with full written report $180)
1/2 hour consultations $40
These follow up consultations are highly flexible. Families may choose to do only neurodevelopmental therapy or nutritional therapy or a combination depending on what suits the family and the child.
This program along with chiropractic support can make a significant difference in a child's and family's life!
Neurodevelopmental Therapy
