Brain Connex Therapy/Brain Development for Function: Parts 1 & 2
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Learn the Brain Connex Method for Primitive Reflex Integration & Brain Hemispheric Balance

This course includes both part 1 & part 2

Help transform children's lives and create successful outcomes by learning how to utilize our proven techniques. In this online course, you'll learn how to implement programs for both primitive reflex integration & brain hemispheric balance. Start seeing lasting changes in your client's immediately!  

*Online course consists of 8 modules that each take approximately 2 hours to work through.
*Learn at your own pace.
*Implement strategies right away.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING COURSE:

  • Module ONE: education in brain development and primitive reflex integration and how it's related to the sensory systems and treatment for children with developmental delays, neurological conditions, and learning challenges.

  • Module TWO: we learn how to test, assess symptoms, and integrate the primitive reflexes that are inherently connected with the sensory systems via vestibular and visual input: Moro, Fear Paralysis, Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex, Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex, and Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex.

  • Module THREE: we learn how to test, assess symptoms, and integrate supporting primitive reflexes that are inherently connected with the sensory systems via the Tactile systems and whole body coordination: Rooting Reflex, Palmar Reflex, Babinski, Spinal Galant, and Landau.

  • Module FOUR: we present additional movement-based treatments that can support proper neurological development. These treatments are helpful for some children to activate reflexes through neuro-developmental movement and visual-motor exercises.

  • Module FIVE: we introduce Brain Hemispheric Integration, or what many refer to as "brain balance" history and techniques. You’ll learn how to determine weak/strong hemisphere and understand its significance for treatment.

  • Module SIX: we learn how to assess the sensory systems, and how to stimulate the weaker brain hemisphere to create balance by engaging the sensory systems; visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, and smell.

  • Module SEVEN: we present cerebellar activities that connect right to left brain to achieve full horizontal & vertical integration in the body system. Also, we cover more in-depth information on a “brain healthy lifestyle”.

  • Module EIGHT: we put all of the information together and discuss how treatment can look in-person and virtually. Discussion on how to coach parents to complete the work with education and motivational ideas.

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  • $750 or 2 monthly payments of $400

Brain Development for Function: Parts 1 & 2

Take your professional career to the next level using the "missing connection" in treatment: primitive reflex & brain hemispheric integration. Learn how to implement simple techniques to create significant & functional results with your clients.

See what is included in the course below.
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Brain Connex Therapy is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity approval ID# 10987. This Blended/Hybrid activity is offered at 1.4 CEUs, intermediate, OT service delivery & foundational knowledge, . The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA or indicate AOTA approval of a certification or other professional recognition.

Contents

Welcome!

Course Outline
Course Details
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MODULE ONE

In Module One we present education in brain development and primitive reflex integration and how it's related to the sensory systems and treatment for children with developmental delays, neurological conditions, and learning challenges. Research that supports its use and the difference between a neurologically-based approach vs. traditional therapies. 

Objectives include:
  • Pyramid of Development & Learning
  • Top-down vs. Bottom-up treatment
  • the Brain Connex 4-step Approach
  • Checklist of symptoms for general underdevelopment of the nervous system
  • How to interpret the symptoms to gear treatment
  • Introduction of Brain Lifestyle Optimization

First download the powerpoint presentation slides and watch the accompanying video.
Next, go through the supporting information in this section.
Finally, take the module quiz and practice, practice, practice!
Download First -- Module ONE Video Presentation Notes
Watch First -- Brain Connex Professional Video Presentation: Module ONE
Brain Connex Pro - Module One (YouTube version)
Research on Primitive Reflexes & Integration
Typical vs. Atypical Developmental Milestones
Developmental Milestone Checklists
Developmental Milestones Checklist - download
Ability Checklist - download
Communication Checklist - download
Signs & Symptoms Questionnaire.pdf
Measure of Foundational Abilities (MFA)
MFA - Preschool PDF.pdf
MFA - Grade School PDF.pdf
MFA - Adolescent PDF.pdf
MODULE ONE: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE TWO

In Module Two we learn how to test, assess symptoms, and integrate the primitive reflexes that are inherently connected with the sensory systems via vestibular and visual input: Moro, Fear Paralysis, Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex, Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex, and Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex.

Objectives include:
  • Review research related to primitive reflexes, learning, & development
  • Understand how to physically test tonic neck reflexes and assess symptoms
  • Understand and practice how to integrate tonic neck reflexes via active movements
  • Understand and practice how to integrate tonic neck reflexes via passive movements
  • Understand modifications and alternative exercises for some reflexes
  • Tonic neck reflexes include: ATNR, TLR, STNR + Moro and FPR


First download the powerpoint presentation slides and watch the accompanying video.
Next, go through the supporting information in this section.
Finally, take the module quiz and practice, practice, practice!
Download First -- Module TWO Video Presentation Notes
Watch First -- Brain Connex Professional Training Video Presentation: Module TWO
Brain Connex Pro Module Two (YouTube Version)
UPDATES 2/2023
Moro Reflex Basics
Test for Moro Reflex
Moro Reflex Integration Exercise
Extras for Moro
Fear Paralysis Reflex Basics
Test for Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR)
Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR) Integration Exercise
Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) Basics
Test for Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)
ATNR 1 Integration Exercise
ATNR 2 Integration Exercise
Extras for ATNR
Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR) Basics
Test for Tonic Labrynthine Reflex (TLR)
TLR Integration Exercise
Extras for TLR
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) Basics
Testing Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)
Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) Integration Exercise
Extras for STNR
MODULE TWO: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE THREE

In Module Three we learn how to test, assess symptoms, and integrate additional primitive reflexes that are inherently connected with the sensory systems via the Tactile systems and whole body coordination: Rooting Reflex, Palmar Reflex, Babinski, Spinal Galant, and Landau.

Objectives include:
  • Learn why we typically start all children with 9-10 primary reflexes
  • Understand how to physically test supporting reflexes and assess symptoms
  • Understand and practice how to integrate supporting reflexes via active movements
  • Understand and practice how to integrate supporting reflexes via passive movements
  • Understand modifications and alternative exercises for some reflexes
  • Supporting reflexes include: Rooting Reflex, Palmar Reflex, Babinski, Spinal Galant, and Landau.


First download the powerpoint presentation slides and watch the accompanying video.
Next, go through the supporting information in this section.
Finally, take the module quiz and practice, practice, practice!
Download First -- Module THREE Video Presentation Notes
Watch First -- Brain Connex Professional Training Program - Module THREE
Brain Connex Pro - Module THREE (YouTube Version)
UPDATES 2/2023
Rooting Reflex Basics
Testing Rooting Reflex
Rooting Reflex Integration Exercise
Extras for Rooting Reflex
Palmar Reflex Basics
Testing Palmar Reflex
Palmar Reflex Integration Exercise
Extras for Palmar Reflex
Babinski Reflex Basics
Testing Babinski Reflex
Babinski Reflex Integration Exercise
Extras for Babinski
Spinal Galant Basics
Testing Spinal Galant
Spinal Galant Integration Exercise
Extras for Spinal Galant
Landau Reflex Basics
Test Landau Reflex
Landau Reflex Integration Exercise
Extras for Landau
Passive Stimulation for Integration
Primitive Reflex Program with Pictures.pdf
Retained Reflexes - Master Checklist PDF.pdf
MODULE THREE: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE FOUR

In Module Four we present additional treatments, and a few additional reflexes, that can support proper neurological development. These treatments are helpful for some children to activate reflexes through neuro-developmental movement. We include education in neuro-developmental movements, basic rhythmic movements and vision exercises.

Objectives include:
  • Learn how & why we use neuro-developmental movements (infantile movements) and when they are appropriate for your client
  • Learn how neuro-developmental movements help to change the brain using a whole body approach, and help integrating reflexes
  • Learn why vision is so important when it comes to brain development & the sensory system
  • Understand standard visual exercises we use in conjunction with reflex integration to get better results
  • Take a look at case studies using reflex integration techniques

First download the powerpoint presentation slides and watch the accompanying video.
Next, go through the supporting information in this section.
Finally, take the module quiz and practice, practice, practice!
Download First -- Module FOUR Video Presentation Notes
Watch First -- Module FOUR Video Presentation
Brain Connex Pro - Module FOUR (YouTube Version)
Log Rolls
Bauer Crawling Reflex
Rocking
Creeping
Zoo Exercises.pdf
Rhythmic Movements Basics
Passive Stimulation Supine, Feet or Knees
Passive Stimulation from Hip in Fetal Position
Passive Rolling of Hips in Prone
Windshield Wipers
Visual-Motor Basics
Visual-Motor Quick Assessment
Visual-Motor Exercise Positioning
Visual-Motor Exercises Complete
Vision Exercise: Tracking & Convergence
Visual-Motor Exercise: Saccades
Visual-Motor Exercise Extra: Convergence Circles
Visual-Motor Exercise Extra: Figure 8's
Visual-Motor Exercise Extra: VOR/ATNR
MODULE FOUR: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE FIVE

In Module Five we introduce Brain Hemispheric Integration, or what many refer to as "brain balance" history and techniques. You'll learn how to use the hemispheric checklist along with physical traits to identify a brain imbalance. What we present in this module is based on training with Dr. Robert Melillo.

Objectives include:
  • History of brain hemispheric integration
  • Research related 
  • Cognitive checklist to determine clients weaker brain hemisphere
  • Physical features assessment to determine clients weaker brain hemisphere
  • Basic neurological testing 

First download the powerpoint presentation slides and watch the accompanying video.
Next, go through the supporting information in this section.
Finally, take the module quiz and practice, practice, practice!
Download First -- Module FIVE Video Presentation Notes
Watch First -- Module FIVE Video Presentation
Brain Connex Pro - Module FIVE (YouTube Version)
UPDATES 6/2021
Specific Research for Brain Hemispheric Integration
Brain Hemispheric TraitsPDF.pdf
Brain Hemispheric Master Checklist
Postural & Sensory System Hemispheric Checklist
The Melillo Cognitive Style Adult Assessment.pdf
Child History Intake Form
Research Paper - Functional Disconnected and Autism
Research Paper - Asymmetry and ADD/ADHD
Research Paper - Treatment for Development Disabilities
Research Paper - Asymmetry & Learning
Research Paper - Asymmetry in Infancy
Research Paper - Dyslexia
Research Paper - Functional Disconnect and Autism
Research Paper - Treatment of ADD/ADHD with Hemispheric Strategies
Research Paper - Rehab for Developmental Disabilities
Research Paper - Brain Connectivity and Autism
Research Paper - Use of Sensorimotor Program for ADHD Treatment
MODULE FIVE: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE SIX

In Module Six we learn how to assess the sensory systems and stimulate the weaker brain hemisphere to create balance by engaging the sensory systems; visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, and smell. We present simple techniques that can be done with minimal equipment (good for home treatment) as well as more advanced techniques that require more expensive equipment (good for clinic treatment).
Download FIRST -- Module Six Video Presentation Notes
Watch FIRST -- Module Six Video Presentation
Brain Connex Pro - Module Six (YouTube Version)
Olfactory System Basics
Testing the Olfactory System
Olfactory System Stimulation
Tactile System Basics
Testing the Tactile System
Tactile System Stimulation
Auditory System Basics
Testing the Auditory System
Auditory System Stimulation
Visual System Basics
Testing the Visual System
Visual System Stimulation
Vestibular System Basics
Testing the Vestibular System
Vestibular System Stimulation
Additional Vestibular Stimulation
Proprioceptive System Basics
Testing the Proprioception System
Proprioception System Stimulation
Dominance Assessment
Sensory Quick Sheet
Extra Equipment for Sensory Stimulation
Exam Template
Research
MODULE SIX: Quiz
QUESTIONS?

MODULE SEVEN

In Module Seven we present cerebellar activities that connect right to left brain to achieve full horizontal & vertical integration in the body system. These activities are numerous -- we lay the groundwork for what needs to be involved in the movement so you can be creative with your clients activities. We also dig a little deeper into Brain Lifestyle Optimization and it's importance in neuroplasticity.
Download FIRST -- Module Seven Video Presentation Notes
Watch FIRST -- Module Seven Video Presentation
Brain Connex Pro -- Module Seven (YouTube Version)
Inside the autism brain: The cerebellum
Resources & Research
Brain’s motor hub plays unsung role in social skills, cognition
Research - Role of Basal Ganglia in Cognition
Research: Brain Health & Neuroplasticity
Resources: Nutrition
Resources: Movement
Resources: Outdoors/Sunshine/Grounding
Resources: Screentime
Resources: Sleep
Resources: Stress
QUESTIONS?

MODULE EIGHT

In Module Eight we put all of the information together and discuss how treatment can look in-person and virtually. We discuss FAQ's about how to educate parents on the movements, how to motivate un-motivated children, and how to individualize programs for children based on case studies we'll discuss.

Download FIRST -- Module Eight Video Presentation Notes
Watch FIRST -- Module Eight Video Presentation
Brain Connex Pro - Module EIGHT (YouTube Version)
Research
Sample Checklist for Parents
Professional Training Feedback & Evaluation Form
QUESTIONS?

Professional Development Guidelines

  • Course Title: Brain Development for Function, Part 1 & 2

  • Available in self-paced, virtual format with on-going enrollment

  • Provider of PD: Brain Connex Therapy, LLC

  • Contact: brainconnex@gmail.com

  • Instructor: Kara Rice, MOT, OTR/L

  • Financial and non-financial disclosures: Kara Rice MOT, OTR/L is paid for instructing this PD course.

  • Target Audience: Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Physical Therapists, OTA, PTA, Kinesiologist, Chiropractors, and other movement-based healthcare professionals

  • Educational Level: intermediate

  • Prerequisites: prior level of knowledge in pediatrics, basic neurology, and movement-based interventions recommended, although not required.

  • PD Activity Description: Learn the foundation of treatment for developing the brain from the bottom-up using a neurological approach, for children with neuro-developmental disorders.

  • Outline: Outline of material taught in each module can be found above.

  • Instructional Methods: self-study virtual format includes homework and quizzes for completion.

  • Cancellation Policies: we offer a full refund within 48 hours of purchase; otherwise due to the nature of digital format, no refunds will be given. Should the provider cancel the course, learner will receive a full refund.

  • AOTA continuing education units (CEUs) and Contact Hours: TBD

  • Special Needs Requests & Accommodations: please email brainconnex@gmail.com with any requests for accommodations.

  • PD Activity Completion Requirements: learner must complete all sections of education, homework, and quizzes in order to complete the requirements for CEUs.

  • Learning Outcomes of Each Module: displayed above.

DISCLAIMER:

The information provided within this program is not meant to treat any specific diagnosis, or disorder. This is not medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting new movement programs. This program is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.

REFUND POLICY:

Due to the nature of digital products and the immediate access granted upon purchase, all products are sold as is, and all sales are final and nonrefundable. We are unable to process refunds or exchanges for our digital products.

Thank you for your understanding.