Building the Foundations for Learning
We often think learning begins when our child starts school, but babies are learning from the moment they are born … and even before. Learning is about much more than reading, writing and academic success. Every day, children are taking in information, making connections, developing new skills and learning about themselves and the world around […]
Balance and Learning
Why Your Child May Struggle to Sit Still, Focus or Read Did you know your child’s sense of balance plays an important role in learning? Even if your child appears physically coordinated—riding a bike or running around—there may still be challenges with static balance. This is the ability to sit still, stay upright, and concentrate […]
The Sense of Balance – links to ADHD and Dyslexia
Immaturities in the sense of balance often underlie difficulties with learning to read and write. While your child may appear to have good balance when moving, riding a bicycles etc, it is their static balance, or the ability to sit still and concentrate that is important for learning in the classroom. Children with immaturities in […]
Play – the Work of Childhood
Sometimes it can feel as though children are “just playing” when there are so many other things they could be learning. As parents, it’s easy to wonder whether we should be encouraging more educational activities, more structure, or more preparation for school. But what if play is the learning? Children are born to play, it’s […]
Midline Integration – the foundation for better Learning
Despite being the “right” age, and appearing to be “ready for school”, children with retained midlines often struggle to keep up in the classroom. The signs may not easily be recognised, and are often linked to diagnoses such as dyslexia or ADHD. Learning delay can happen despite your best intentions, and the benefits of normal […]
Your 9 Year old Child – a Time of Transition
Suddenly, in the seeming blink of an eye, your previously easygoing 7 or 8 year old has become … nine. You might notice they seem more inward become more inward, thoughtful or moody. Perhaps asking bigger questions about life, friendships or themselves. Or maybe you’re finding yourself navigating more criticism, anger, frustration or emotional outbursts […]
Developmental Readiness for Reading
Developmental readiness for school sets the stage for success throughout their school years. Time spent preparing your child for starting school will pay lasting dividends throughout their entire school career …. and beyond. Rather than simply reaching a certain age before starting school, it will help if your child is also developmentally ready. We all […]
Learning Begins Long Before School
Building Blocks for Learning Many parents become concerned when their child struggles at school. Perhaps reading is difficult, concentration is a challenge, or emotions seem to spill over more easily than expected. It’s natural to wonder: “Why is this so hard for my child?” The answer is not always found in the classroom. Learning is […]
How Early Development Shapes Learning: the role of Retained Primitive Reflexes
Having a child who is falling behind, no matter how hard they try, is a common cause of stress for parents. The answer often lies in their early stages of development. The foundation of all later development is found in retained early movement patterns, known as Retained Primitive Reflexes. Success in the classroom requires much […]
Why is Tummy Time Important?
Babies are amazing. They are born knowing exactly what they need to do to grow and develop. They don’t need us to push or prompt, or provide them with any fancy gadgetry. All they need is a safe place for some floor play and tummy time, and you to watch over them. They’ll grow […]