Reflex Integration Program

The question we often hear from parents is: "So, what are reflexes?"

Reflexes also known as Primitive or Infant reflexes are automatic movements that we are all born with. Some familiar examples include baby grasping response also known as palmar grasp which causes baby to grasp an object touching inside it the palm, or suckling reflex essential for feeding in the newborn period.

In early development we have several other reflexes that serve as basic building blocks for development of future mature motor skills.

As a child's nervous system matures, these reflexes typically integrate, allowing more voluntary and controlled movements to emerge. However in some cases, certain reflexes may remain active beyong the age when they would typically integrate. When this happens, they may interfere with development of motor skills, coordination, posture and other areas of development.

Here are some areas that you might notice difficulties with for a child with delayed or lack of integration:

Motor Skills development and maturation

Clumsiness
Poor posture
Difficulty sitting upright
Poor handwriting
Coordination problems

Sensory & Neurodevelopment

Sensory sensitivities
Poor balance
Low muscle tone
Difficulty with bilateral coordination

Learning / Behavior

Difficulty focusing
Anxiety with sudden sounds or movement
Challenges with reading/writing
Trouble crossing midline
Trouble with executive functions
Difficulties with self regulation

OUR INDYVIDUALIZED REFLEX INTEGRATION program is designed to facilitate emergence, maturation and integration of reflexes.

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Neuro-Integrative Movement Coaching Program (NIMP)

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What IS Neuro-integrative movement program- NIMP?

NIMP is not a physical therapy service. NIMP is offered by Movement Horizons as a coaching program designed to support population of neurodivergent children and their families. It is a highly individualized approach including parent education along with facilitated sensory and motor activities that aim at strengthening self-regulation, sensory tolerance, body awareness and executive functions. The goal of the program is to support better initiation, attention, ability to plan and sequencing, as well as improved emotional flexibility and regulation. Regular participation in NIMP can lead to improvement in the level of independence allowing neurodivergent clients to access the community. Allowing for participation with more ease, regulation and ultimately more joy.

Our program includes strong sensory-motor component along with recreational-based components like using iGallop for simulated horse back riding experience, along with the use of walking pads and treadmills. “Neuro-integrative movement program” is delivered under direct guidance of a trained integrative movement facilitator. When attended on a regular weekly or biweekly basis is designed to help individuals:

Attain or maintain their maximum level of functioning
Improve self-help, communication, and higher executive function skills
Increase their ability to function more independently in the community
Improve awareness of self and surroundings
Support communication skills and visual, auditory, and tactile awareness and perception experiences
Allow individuals greater connection to community events and activities that contribute to independence and inclusion

Intensive

Program

Infant in sitting position holding a toy with an adult sitting behind and supporting the child to stay in the position

To optimize the amount of change and progress that the child can make it is most beneficial to start with intensive program of movement therapy. Doing about 2 hours of therapy each day for a period of 1-3 weeks time allows us to “awaken” the brain's capacity to learn, change, and create new motor and sensory pathways. The intensive program is like a “jump start” for positive change. You can also think of it as a preparation for the muscular, skeletal and nervous system to go to the next level of independence.

Because each child is different, and each family is unique we will work with parents and caregivers to set the optimum schedule.

Follow up is usually 1-2 sessions per week along with an individualized home program. Depending on the child's needs we often repeat the intensive program after a period of 6-8 weeks as needed.

Early intervention

EARLY start of movement intervention is critical- because humans learn to move and move to develop their brain, learn and grow right from the first weeks of life

0-3 Years

At Movement Horizons we are passionate about our early intervention program and committed to supporting young children with disabilities.

Early intervention therapy is vital to unlocking a child's full life potential and maximizing the results of therapy. It involves working alongside children and their families during the child’s most influential developmental years (0-36 months). Research shows that intense therapy and support during these important years can make a very positive difference in the lives of children with disabilities because the rate of development and brain plasticity is most rapid in their early years.

Starting intervention as the first signs of delays and concerns can completely change the outcome of the challenges that you child might be otherwise facing in their future.

It is also the most incredible way to support and optimize not only motor but also cognitive and emotional development of the child.

Training

for Parents & Caregivers

" It is parents who know their children best and it is parents with their unwavering dedication and love that can support the change and ongoing growth"

We offer support and education services that we consider essential for all parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. These services provide parents and caregivers with more knowledge and hands on skills for caring, teaching and enhancing their children's life every single day.

We help to increase parents' confidence in the way they interact and play with their child. We educate them about how to positively support their child's development and path to reach their next milestones.

With experience and expertise we share daily tips and simple ways of incorporating essential strategies that fit their kids needs and meet individual family abilities.

Equipment

Consultation

Our extensive experience in school settings and beyond allows us to provide advice for the best equipment choices for your child; including wheelchairs and other adaptive seating systems.

We are also well versed in consultation/collaboration with AAC specialists on positioning for accessing a communication device.

Our team regularly follows and visits Abilities Expo to discover, learn and test new rehabilitation equipment, staying current with innovations to support those with physical needs.