Empowering Parents: How Primitive Reflexes and Sensory Input Can Change Lives
Lara speaks with Jen, a mother navigating the challenges of raising her son Will, who was born with a cleft lip and palate and later received an autism diagnosis. Jen shares her unique journey, detailing the struggles they faced, including Will's early feeding issues and communication delays. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and addressing underlying developmental factors, such as primitive reflexes and sensory processing, to foster Will's growth. Jen discusses the transformative impact of working with Lara, including the implementation of sensory inputs and exercises that have significantly improved Will's speech and social interactions. This episode serves as an inspiring reminder for parents that there are alternative pathways to support their children's development beyond conventional diagnoses.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Understanding Primitive Reflexes: The discussion highlights the importance of primitive reflexes in child development. These reflexes should integrate by the age of 12 months, and retained reflexes can hinder a child's progress. Exercises to integrate these reflexes can help children develop essential motor skills and coordination.
Holistic Approach to Diagnosis: The conversation emphasizes that a diagnosis, such as autism, should not be the end of the journey. Instead, it encourages exploring various avenues, including sensory input, dietary changes, and developmental assessments, to understand and support the child's unique needs.
Sensory Input and Its Impact: Utilizing sensory tools, such as the ResiMax and specific sound frequencies, can significantly aid in a child's development. These tools help stimulate the brain and integrate reflexes, leading to improved focus and calmness.
Importance of Lab Testing: Conducting lab tests, such as organic acid tests, can provide valuable insights into a child's gut health and nutritional deficiencies. Understanding these factors can guide dietary adjustments that may alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
BEST MOMENTS
"I always, always believed that there was more to go on and to look into and really, like, I wanted to tap into who he actually is rather than his restrictions." - Jen
"I was so desperate and so overwhelmed I thought this is the priority right now I am gonna put everything else to one side." - Jen
"You can actually see what's going on inside the brain. You can see those alpha, beta, delta waves." - Lara
"It was like another boost of hope of like, you know, this child will be able to do all the things." - Jen
HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.
GUEST BIO
Jen is a warrior mum, mum to Will, both born with a cleft lip and palate. Their account @dontgetlippyuk was created to share their experience and the impact this condition has. As Will was growing, Jen noticed that Will was missing or delayed with achieving developmental milestones, along with having a speech delay. Wondering how much of their medical journey had impacted Will and wondering what was next, Jen started looking at ways to support development and progress. Through a friend, Jen met Lara. Listen in to understand the journey.
www.braindevelopment.co.uk
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UK