At Sense Enabled we use gentle movement based therapies to help kids and teens with sensory sensitivities to be their best selves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about our sessions and methods.
What is Neurodevelopment?
Neurodevelopment is the functioning of the autonomic nervous system as it affects our behavior, emotional well-being and ability to learn. It is the autonomic nervous system which calms and excites our body-brain systems and it can get out of balance. This results in anxiety, fear, controlling behaviors, apathy and many other thoughts or feelings being unconsciously experienced by the individual.
A balance of mental, emotional, physical or social functions depends on both the upper and lower brain working together. In splintered development one or more of these areas is less matured, delayed or perhaps, not in sync with the others. This can cause great frustration for the individual with these differences and confusion for those trying to understand and help them.
Neurodevelopment isn’t just for the young, it can be disturbed at any time throughout our lives. Quite often we struggle with these challenges in the belief it’s simply apart of who we are because they have been with us since birth. But change is possible at any age!
How can Neurodevelopment get out of balance?
Here are just a few ways neurodevelopment can be altered
Position in utero
Trauma before or during birth
Atypical birth
Issues with immature reflexes
Health issues, stroke
Restricted movement
Cycles of failure or trauma
Accidents
Genetic inclinations
Aging, brain injury
Stress, anxiety
How can I tell if my child is experiencing neurodevelopment that is out of balance?
When children and teens are out of balance they may be experiencing an array of noticeable symptoms:
Emotional behaviors
Social behaviors
Anxiety
Nervousness
Motor issues- fine or large motor
Learning challenges
Attention, focus
Energy levels- too much or too little
Sleep
Personal habits
Memory problems
Some neurodevelopmental differences have been categorized and labeled. Others are unique to the individual. Examples of categorized behaviors include:
Puzzling Behaviors
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Asperger’s Syndrome
Attention Deficit Disorder with or without Hyperactivity
Dyslexia
Motor issues
Sensory Issues
Audio processing
Visual issues- tracking or near to far focus
How are sensory-Moter difficulties different from neurodevelopmental ones?
Sensory-motor issues are linked to behaviors that center around difficulty with a particular sense, such as touch, light sensitivity or sound. Addressing these difficulties is a more targeted approach rather than working with several issues as in a neurodevelopmental session.
Examples of Some Common Sensory-Motor Issues:
Touch- socks and shoes are difficult to wear, preference for soft fabrics/ waistbands
Taste- bitter vegetables are totally rejected, cravings for sweets
Smell- bathroom smells inhibit use, food smells cause upset
Vision- objects coming from the side cause distress, words moving on page
Vision- sustained focusing on reading is difficult, near to far focus is hard
Hearing- instructions are tuned out, loud noises cause startles, crying
Hearing- noises disrupt sleep, easily distract focus
Gravity- upright posture is hard to sustain, can’t get dizzy
Gravity- riding in a vehicle can put to sleep or sicken
Body in space- clumsy movement that knocks into people or objects
Body in space- needs stuffies or another body close by to sleep
These difficulties may be something we all experience at some point in our lives (pregnancy anyone?). But when they impair the ability to make healthy social connections or impact our educational outcomes they need to be addressed.
What do I need to bring to a session?
New COVID-19 guidelines require that we do our best to keep each other healthy during a session. This means I will be wearing a face mask or shield and gloves. If your child can stand a mask please have them wear one and if you stay to observe the session please wear a mask yourself. Hand washing supplies will be provided and everyone will wash before a session.
More details on health protocols for our sessions under the new state guidelines can be found here.
What does a program of therapy look like?
A complete Neurodevelopmental Assessment and Program is best for getting a complete picture of the interaction of the sensory-motor systems and their relationship to each other and the environment. Through simple tasks and an observational assessment these interactions can be analyzed.
If a diagnosis for a particular set of behaviors is present, such as autism, a complete assessment is highly recommended as well as reviewing integration with other concurrent therapies.
I have an initial assessment where a written assessment will be provided detailing what was observed. A personalized program to address the child's issues will be recommended and a training session with parents and care givers will be held. Afterwards there are monthly sessions that move gently, but steadily toward the goals.
Is a Reflex Session Right for My Needs?
Some people ask, “Should I do a Reflex Session or a HANDLE Assessment and Program?” A Complete HANDLE Neurodevelopmental Assessment and Program including Reflex Integration work is best for those who have complex or diagnosed issues. This will give you complete and comprehensive information about a particular neurodevelopmental system.
Reflexes can be the underlying cause for many issues, especially those that are not directly related to sensory issues. Because reflexes are part of our basic design integration is the equivalent of improving the foundation of your house. When the foundation is solid the whole is stronger and the brain has more “bandwidth” for other pursuits. Reflex sessions are an excellent starting point for the neurodevelopmental process.
What Reflexes are addressed in a reflex session?
Retained or abnormal reflex patterns can interfere with learning, emotional regulation and motor activities. Developmental reflexes are automatic, unconscious motor patterns triggered by one or more senses and stresses. The reactions triggered by certain stimulus is driven by body-motor response from the lower brain and not thoughtful, chosen response by the upper brain. Traumas, stresses or genetic propensities can cause these sensory-motor patterns to persist long past their typical periods of integration.
List of some reflexes that might be considered in a session:
Fear-Paralysis Response
Spinal Galant Reflex
Perez Reflex
Landau Reflex
Babkin Reflex
Pull to Sit Reflex
Palmar and Plantar Grasp
what can I expect at a session?
I emphasize a positive, non-judgmental approach. Kids and parents should arrive ready to move without restrictive clothing. If necessary, a rest, snack or toilet break is acceptable. Sessions last roughly an hour with time for assessments, checks, tone work and learning activities to take home. Always time for questions.
I work out of offices in the Bothell and Everett areas. Both offices have private rooms which are quiet and comfortable for clients with sensitivities.
I recommend you read further about what to expect at a screening. And you can download our patient forms in advance of your session.
who can attend a session?
It is important that your child or teen be comfortable during our sessions together. I highly encourage parents, siblings or other care givers to stay wiyh us during a session. Family is always welcomed.
Please read this post on reopening guidelines and we’ll keep this space updated as the rules change.
How can I share this with my friends who's kids are struggling?
Thank you!
Connect with me directly through this website, by email or on Facebook. You can host a community meeting if you have a group you'd like to introduce to Reflex Integration or HANDLE. Home schooling groups, parent support groups, or any groups of 4 or more people. I welcome opportunities to educate everyone about these options for growth and change!
Check out the upcoming community meetings here or contact me to arrange one.