Both parents and their children with developmental disabilities, including Cerebral Palsy, Autism, global brain damage, paralysis and Down syndrome, face unique challenges. The children struggle to develop fine and gross motor skills, and parents are challenged with finding resources that address the specific developmental needs of their child. While physical, occupational, speech and other therapies offer good solutions, many are turning to Designed for Movement, a Nevada City practice that provides parents that critical link between the child and the medical specialist.

Designed for Movement’s approach to functional development is based on a method originated by physicist Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais. Of particular importance is Feldenkrais’ premise that we learn to move in a logical order as babies and beyond. If any part of this order is skipped or missed as a result of brain damage, it must be re-learned and integrated in the development process.

According to Jackie Mason, founder of Designed for Movement, we cannot separate brain development from how we move. The two are part of an integrated whole,� says Mason. As movement becomes more complex, the brain processes information in a more organized and logical manner. Children develop better concentration and a more sophisticated ability to think critically when they are introduced to innate movement.� Continue reading here…