Movement and Child Development

We begin life ready with a large palate of universal, reflexive movements. Rolling over, reaching for a desired object, hand grasping or crawling are motor development patterns that appear to be essential for the future development of reading, writing, memory and social interactions. In a healthy child, a particular movement or series of movements are investigated, enjoyed, and the corresponding neural circuits created. Once firmly established these circuits are moved to lower levels of the brain for connection to the whole body movement system. These neurological connections, first established to sequence gross motor movement, get reused later to help sequence and adjust mental acts and thoughts. Adequate movement and sensory stimulation, in the presence of another loving human being, are essential for normal human development.

This dependence on movement for brain development and function continues throughout life. The overwhelming importance of movement is evident from the amazing fact that 90% of the brain’s capacity is spent in orienting and moving the body in relation to gravity.

The natural state of a child is one of constant movement, curiosity, and play. They know what they need to do for their own development. However, if a movement sequence is interrupted or fails to develop, important neurological circuits also fail to develop. These simple building blocks are then unavailable to support the development of more complex thoughts and actions in the future.

Early intervention can save a life-time of difficulties for the child, and wear and tear on the whole family system. It is never too late to change the course of a child’s inadequate development, whether physical or emotional. The earlier the intervention, the better the outcome, but the brain remains remarkably adaptable throughout childhood. If you are concerned about even subtle difficulties your child is experiencing we may be able to offer a surprisingly simple solution.

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