Introduction
Every child is unique. The child develops from a tiny baby into a toddler, a little girl or boy, a teenager and finally an adult. Most of our children develop from one stage to the next almost unnoticed. However, some children's development may be mildly disrupted or delayed. A developmental delay can cause difficulties later, particularly with learning.

Neuro Developmental Delay
Signs of a developmental delay usually appear quite early in life, long before a child goes to school. The child may never crawl, may be late learning to talk or he may be difficult to toilet train. Your child may be easily frightened and not want to leave you to go out to play - preferring his own company rather than that of other children.

Many children of normal intelligence, who have a developmental delay, have what is known as Neuro Developmental Delay (NDD). This developmental delay may affect many areas of a child's life where skills are required. It may adversely affect his social skills, emotional well being, his confidence or his maturity. Skills are also required for learning to read, write, spell, add and subtract. In addition, they are required for balance and co-ordination, fine and gross motor control ... in fact, for almost everything we do.

Neuro Developmental Delay varies in severity - it can be so minor that it causes no apparent problems, or it can be severe enough to contribute significantly to reading difficulties (Dyslexia); hand writing problems (Dysgraphia); problems with mathematics (Dyscalculia) and difficulties with balance, coordination and movement (Dyspraxia). It may also contribute to bed-wetting (Enuresis).

When Primitive Reflexes are found in a child or teenager, they usually indicate some degree of Neuro Developmental Delay ... we use these reflexes as a measurement of its degree or severity.

Neuro Developmental Therapy
Neuro Developmental Therapy is a programme of movement designed to weaken Primitive Reflexes, therefore allowing further development of the brain. This development in the brain helps reduce the difficulties caused by developmental delay. Studies of children following a programme of Neuro Developmental Therapy, have shown significant improvements in their balance and coordination, their ability to learn at school and in their emotional and social well-being.

Neuro Developmental Therapy is suitable for most children from 5 years of age upwards - who have partially uninhibited Primitive Reflexes. Teenagers and young adults also benefit from this therapy.

A programme of Neuro Developmental Therapy lasts for about a year. It continues until all Primitive Reflexes are weakened to within normal limits, and Postural Reactions are developing.

A programme of Neuro Developmental Therapy is specific to each child.

For further information you can visit the website of The Institute of Neuro Developmental Therapy Ireland by clicking on their logo ...