LifeSkills
Movement
Program

Why my child's body is moving differently?

​​

Movement is a foundational component of development and is essential to health and function throughout the lifespan. It is important to understand that the movement system is developed, not just given. Movement starts in the womb and continues to be influenced by our environment after birth. As we grow and develop, we explore and collect small amounts of movement, ultimately combining those pieces to create gross motor function. Gross motor skills are impacted when those pieces are missing. We must first understand the missing pieces and how they affect the child’s function and participation.

​

As children develop, they learn to move their bodies and build unique patterns. As they grow and demands increase, those patterns become stronger. This could result in the overuse or underuse of certain muscles, changes in the physical shape of the muscles/posture, and atypical movement.

 

What is the focus of LifeSkills Movement Program?​

​

Movement is directed from the brain through the sensory and the neurological systems. The brain serves as the conductor, while the body parts are the instruments. If the relationship between the conductor and instruments is good, then the music is harmonized. If it is not, then the music does not flow. The goal of the Movement Program is to use a neurodevelopmental approach to help children break established patterns to build new ones. Learning new patterns leads to new outcomes and improvement in gross functional skills.

​

What age group is this program for?

The Movement Program is ideal for children of all ages experiencing difficulties with gross motor skills or exhibiting atypical movement patterns.

 

​How can LifeSkills Movement Program help my child?

​

The idea of the Movement Program is to work on this relationship and system. By addressing this, we can break the atypical patterns that a child already built, create changes in the movement, and build a new foundation to improve the brain-body connection so the child can have new movement patterns.

 

It is important to first understand and analyze what pieces a child is missing. We must first understand what is causing the child to exhibit atypical movements that contribute to difficulties with function. Movement is complex, with various components impacting how we move. Some of these components include the skeletal and muscular systems, tone, coordination, modulation, balance, the nervous system, and the sensory system. By providing the right support, environment, position, and input, we can help a child build a new foundation.

​

Is this program a therapy service?

No, LifeSkills Movement Program is not provided by a licensed therapist but is designed to support and complement therapy services. It helps create a strong foundation for gross motor development, which can enhance your occupational & physical therapy outcomes.

​​

How long does the program take?

Each child progresses at their own pace, but typically, families will see improvements in movement and function within a few months, depending on consistency and engagement.

​

Program Benefits

​

Gross Motor Skills

Targeted activities to enhance balance, coordination, and posture.

​

Supports Sensory & Neurological Systems

Strengthening the brain-body connection for smoother, more organized movement.

 

Custom Approach for Each Child
 

Our program tailors activities and input based on the specific needs of the child, promoting faster, more effective progress.

 

Enhances Therapy Goals
 

This program acts as a powerful complement to existing therapy services, ensuring your child’s development is well-rounded.

 

Strengthens Core & Body Awareness
 

By addressing missing movement "pieces," we help children build stronger, more coordinated bodies.

​​

What diagnosis benefits from LifeSkills Movement Program?

 

If you have concerns with your child's movement, posture, coordination, gait pattern, endurance, and muscle tone you can request an evaluation without a diagnosis. Here are the common diagnoses that can benefit from LifeSkills Movement Program .

 

Frequently Asked Question?

​

1: What is the LifeSkills movement program?

Ans:- The LifeSkills movement program uses a sensory-neurodevelopmental approach to help children develop new movement patterns. It looks at factors such as coordination, balance, muscle tone, sensory processing, posture, and the brain-body connection to identify missing movement foundations.
 

2: Who can benefit from the LifeSkills movement program?

Ans:- The program is designed for children of all ages who have difficulties with gross motor skills or atypical movement patterns. Children with concerns involving gait, coordination, posture, endurance, muscle tone, or movement disorders may be appropriate candidates, and a diagnosis is not required to request an evaluation.
 

3: Can the program help children with toe walking?

Ans:- Yes. Therapy for toe walking may be part of the broader movement concerns addressed through the LifeSkills Movement Program. The program works to understand the underlying movement patterns and missing components that may contribute to atypical gait, then uses targeted support and input to help the child develop new movement patterns.
 

4: Is the LifeSkills movement program a replacement for occupational or physical therapy?

Ans:- No. The movement program is not provided by a licensed therapist and is specifically designed to support and complement existing occupational and physical therapy services. Its purpose is to build a stronger foundation for gross motor development and potentially enhance the goals being addressed through a child's existing therapy.
 

5: How long does it take to see progress with the movement program?

Ans:- Every child progresses differently. The program notes that families may typically see improvements in movement and function within a few months, although progress depends on factors including consistency and the child's engagement with the program.
 

Neurodevelopmental Conditions

Movement Disorders

Hypertonia/Hypotonia

Cerebral Palsy

Coordination Disorder

Toe Walking

Postural Problems

Sensory Integration Disorder

​

If you are interested in inquiring about the movement program, please contact us at (407-629-9455).

We look forward to making a positive impact on your child’s life!