What are Neurodevelopmental Movements?

Neurodevelopmental movements are the patterned movements that all babies do when allowed uninhibited tummy time and that are essential to organize, wire and regulate the brain. They include tummy crawling, hands and knees crawling, and specific patterns that are executed by baby when on its tummy.  While some say that babies learn to move, the reality is that babies move to learn. Lack of completion of these developmental movements can inhibit proper development, relationships, and learning.

If we think about the first year of life of a typical baby, we can’t help but notice all the contraptions new parents think they need – bouncy seats, baby swings, boppies and bumbos, etc. But all these items keep baby on its back or sitting, not on its tummy. This lack of tummy time creates gaps in baby’s development and can show up later in life as social, academic, learning, physical, attentional, behavioral, and emotional challenges. 

How much time should a baby spend on its tummy? Some experts say 50%, with the other 50% being carried on mom’s hips to help develop stabilization. 

It’s important to note that the brain of a baby develops in an organized way from the bottom up. The lower levels of the brain develop first, starting in the brainstem. The higher levels are then developed on the foundation of the lower ones. If there are any gaps in the lower levels, they can show up in the higher levels and present as challenges with anxiety, sensitivity, emotional regulation, memory, learning, attention, and focus.

The good news is that we can take advantage of the neuroplasticity of the brain – that it can change and develop new neural pathways and strengthen myelination of the nerves – to repair and rewire gaps in neurodevelopment. We do this by going back and completing the neurodevelopmental movements missed in infancy. Once fully integrated, there is no longer a need for the exercises as the repair will be complete.

Here's where I can help! I offer an evaluation assessing neurodevelopmental gaps. Based on my findings, I create a daily exercise program for you to do at home tailored specifically for your child. We periodically assess progress and update the program as necessary until gaps are repaired and rewired. Contact me to set up an appointment today!​