The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) is one of the fundamental primitive reflexes that babies are born with. These reflexes are automatic responses to certain stimuli, and they play a crucial role in early development. When a baby turns its head to the right or left, typically in response to a sound or visual cue, […]
READ MORECrossing Midline
Our bodies have an imaginary line in the centre dividing us between left and right. Crossing midline is our ability to cross that line with our hands, arms and/or legs. This ability is an essential part of kids’ motor and cognitive development. It is closely related to several children’s daily activities and aspects of maturing […]
READ MOREContractures
What are contractures? A contracture is a condition in which there is a permanent tightening of the muscles, tendons, skin, or nearby tissues that causes a joint to shorten and become very stiff, causing a distortion or a deformity which limits normal joint function. There are different types of contractures, they can occur in muscles, […]
READ MOREOral Motor Skills
The development of oral motor skills begins in the womb and is usually fully developed by 3 years of age. Like many other skills we learn as humans, oral motor development is supported by our primitive reflexes, postural control and physiological milestones which ideally develop in synchronicity. Oral motor exercises are increasingly becoming more renowned […]
READ MOREWhat is ‘Bilateral Coordination’?
Bilateral coordination – or bilateral integration – is the ability to use both sides of the body simultaneously, in a coordinated and sequenced way. Good bilateral coordination means the child has good motor control when performing physical and daily living activities, and also that both sides of the brain are communicating effectively. Bilateral coordination is […]
READ MOREBenefits of Supported Risky Play for Children
Risky play involves children exploring their surroundings and encountering situations that they are not expecting and are unsure of the outcome. Exhilarating, exciting, and physically demanding activities such as climbing, jumping, balancing, or rough play are all examples of risky play. It is considered a natural progression in children’s learning as they explore new environments, […]
READ MOREPrimitive Reflexes and How They Affect Your Child’s Development?
What are primitive reflexes? Primitive reflexes are the first reflexes for our development. They are involuntary movement patterns that assist with survival in early childhood. These reflexes are usually naturally integrated in the first three years of life. However, they can be retained and might cause developmental delays and dysfunction. What are the causes for […]
READ MOREWhat Is Low Muscle Tone
Have you heard your child being described as having “low muscle tone” but wonder what on earth does it mean?! It’s a question that’s often raised with Occupational Therapists, and can typically be confused with low muscle strength. We’re going to break down what muscle tone is, why it’s important and provide some activity suggestions […]
READ MOREHow to Teach your Child to Ride a Bike
You may be wondering what are the skills required to ride a bike & how can we teach our children to do so! Bike riding is an excellent opportunity for your child to participate in physical activity and develop healthy, lifelong habits. Here, we’ll go through the types of bikes that are suitable for kids […]
READ MOREGross motor activities for home
Why is gross motor important for your children? Gross motor is incredibly important in enabling children to perform everyday tasks and have the endurance to complete them with confidence. Activities such as sitting upright at a table, walking, running and standing are all movements that are influenced by gross motor strength. Poor gross motor strength […]
READ MORE