The Madison Center therapist will first establish the current level of function and strengthen core/postural control through objective assessment, clinical observation and parental feedback. In addition therapist will observe for and lessen the effects of latent primitive reflexes that are typically fully integrated by toddlerhood. Specific treatments include:
- Strengthen muscle groups needed to create a stable base from which smaller muscle groups can work.
- Progressively higher demands for coordination increases as the child's competence improves.
- Develop balance during stable (static) activities progressing to dynamic balance during movement.
- Require increasing isolated movement of smaller muscle groups to improve fine motor skills.
- Emphasis on using both sides (bilateral) of the body in a cooperative way to complete tasks.
- Incorporate activities of daily living: dressing, hygiene and give functional application to the skills being acquired.
Our therapists will identify areas through checklists and parental observations that prohibit/inhibit the child's ability to explore or engage with the environment (movement, sounds, touch, etc). Therapist will also incorporate progressively more challenging “obstacles” and support the child's body and sensory system with carefully placed input that can allow him to work in spite of his sensory aversions and sensitivities. Where appropriate we will integrate methods for Developmental Coordination Disorders.
