Psychomotricity: When Does My Child Need It? A Comprehensive Guide for Mothers
Understanding psychomotricity and its role in treating hyperactivity and coordination difficulties in children. A guide to the signs, causes, and treatment phases at the Universal Healthy Brain Center.
Introduction: Why does my child suffer from excessive movement?
You may notice that your child does not sit still, runs constantly, finds difficulty in controlling their movements, or suffers from problems with writing or motor coordination. Some parents believe these are just behaviors, but in fact, they may be related to difficulties in neuro-motor coordination, which are treatable. Psychomotricity is a scientific specialty concerned with the relationship between the brain, the body, and movement, aiming to improve this relationship for the child. In this article, we will learn about:
- What is psychomotricity?
- Signs that it is needed.
- How treatment works.
- Services of the Universal Healthy Brain Center.
What is Psychomotricity?
Psychomotricity is a specialty that treats the relationship between the brain and muscles, aiming to improve the child's ability to transform thought into coordinated movement.
Difference between Psychomotricity and Physical Therapy:
- Psychomotricity: Focuses on sensory-motor coordination and cognitive development.
- Physical Therapy: Focuses on physical rehabilitation and organic injuries.
Goals of Psychomotricity:
- Developing fine and gross motor coordination.
- Improving balance.
- Strengthening muscles.
- Developing sensory perception.
- Enhancing self-confidence.
Signs of the Need for Psychomotricity
From 3 to 5 years:
- Frequent falls while walking or playing.
- Difficulty walking in a straight line.
- Weakness in holding a pen.
- Avoiding active play.
- Poor hand-eye coordination.
From 6 to 10 years:
- Unclear handwriting.
- Difficulty tying buttons or shoes.
- Difficulty sitting correctly.
- Avoiding sports activities.
- Poor confidence during group play.
From 10 to 14 years:
- Difficulties in mathematics related to spatial imagination.
- Problems in sports activities.
- Avoiding performances or physical activities.
- Poor confidence during social interaction.
When Should You Visit a Specialist?
- Delay in walking, jumping, or running.
- Frequent daily falls.
- Difficulty in daily activities (eating, dressing, writing).
- Avoiding physical activities.
- Hyperactivity or inability to sit still.
- Poor athletic performance compared to peers.
Causes of Motor Problems
- Visual-Motor Coordination Weakness: The child sees the movement but cannot execute it accurately.
- Sensory Processing Issues: Difficulty in interpreting information coming from the senses.
- Motor Planning Weakness: Difficulty in organizing and executing movement.
- Muscle Weakness: Low muscle tone leading to rapid fatigue.
- Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD): Lack of focus affects motor control.
How is Treatment Done at the Center?
Phase One: Assessment
- Interview with parents.
- Comprehensive motor examination.
- Observation of the child while playing.
Phase Two: Treatment Program
Coordination Exercises:
- Walking on lines.
- Jumping on one foot.
- Throwing and catching a ball.
Balance Exercises:
- Standing on an unstable surface.
- Walking on a rope.
- Exercises with closed eyes.
Strength Exercises:
- Climbing.
- Pushing and pulling.
- Light resistance activities.
Sensory Exercises:
- Playing with sand.
- Playing with water.
- Using materials of different textures.
Phase Three: Follow-up
- Evaluation every 3 months.
- Adjusting the program according to progress.
- Training parents on home exercises.
Tips for Parents
- Increase physical play outdoors.
- Reduce screen time.
- Encourage daily physical activities.
- Do not compare the child to others.
- Support the child psychologically continuously.
Treatment Duration
- Mild Cases: 3 to 6 months.
- Moderate Cases: 6 to 12 months.
- Severe Cases: 12 to 24 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Treatment starts from the age of 3.
- Sessions are usually once or twice a week.
- The session lasts 45 minutes.
- Treatment is enjoyable and interactive.
- Parent participation is very important.
š¬ This content is for educational and awareness purposes only. For a personal evaluation, please book an appointment with our specialized team at the Universal Healthy Brain Center.
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