COMPETENCE PROJECT

Integrative practices in pediatric neuromoor development:

A Therapeutic approach

For my competence project, I identified a need to develop and produce a comprehensive reference guide for clinicians and parents outlining alternative and holistic approaches to support intervention amongst the pediatric neuromotor populations. This guide serves as a culmination of my own practice, continuing education and knowledge acquired through this program. This guide was also created from the direct feedback and input of parents and caregivers.

I was inspired to develop this reference guide after having the opportunity to speak with the many parents I've worked with over the past several years. So many of them shared similar sentiments, expressing they wished they had learned of a particular approach earlier or were frustrated no one had previously suggested trying an alternative technique. Likewise, I recognize how as a therapist, it can be challenging to navigate all the information and resources when weighing the best options and practices for your patients.

Through my own practice and in working with parents, I have come to recognize the importance in a highly individualized approach to care, particularly with the pediatric neuromotor population. As with neuroplasticity and neurodiversity, no two persons are alike, and thus a mere conventional approach to care may not be sufficient. I have come to learn there are so many alternative therapeutic approaches that complement “traditional” occupational, physical and speech therapy. However, many of these approaches are not as widely recognized by parents and clinicians alike, thus delaying access for the child. While there is information on many of these interventions, it is often scattered, requiring parents and clinicians to seek it out.

It is my goal to provide a clear and concise reference guide with basic information on these various interventions. All interventions included are strictly confined to those which can be carried out by therapists – e.g. occupational, physical and speech therapists. This guide does not make personal nor individualized recommendations, suggestions nor promote certain therapies; rather it objectively summarizes the information to serve as a resource to parents and clinicians to collaboratively guide care for their children.

Legal Disclosure:

While the author, Kathryn A. LeMonda, is a licensed occupational therapy professional, the information provided within this book is not intended nor implied to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This book was designed to simply share knowledge, resources and options. All content including text, graphics, images, and affiliate links contained within this book is for general information purposes. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this book. If you are a parent interested in receiving therapy services and/or trialing any of the approaches outlined within this book, please speak with your child’s pediatrician and current therapy team to determine if it may be appropriate for your child. If you are a clinician, any action on your part in response to the information in this book is at the reader’s clinical discretion.The information provided in this book is believed to be accurate to the best knowledge of the author. The author will ensure reasonable efforts to include up-to-date and accurate information within this book, but makes no representations, warranties, and assurances as to the accuracy, currency or completeness of the information provided. Such information is subject to change without notice. Kathryn A. LeMonda does not make any individual recommendations, endorsements and representations about the efficacy, appropriateness or suitability for specific procedures, treatments, services or opinions that may be obtained through this book. Kathryn A. LeMonda is not liable for any advice, diagnosis, course of treatment, services or products you may obtain through this book.


Financial Disclosures:


Kathryn A. LeMonda, the author of Integrative Practices in Pediatric Neuromotor Development: A Therapeutic Approach, receives no royalty payments nor compensation for this product. Kathryn A. LeMonda is employed at The Neurological and Physical Abilitation (NAPA) Center in the capacity of pediatric occupational therapist - OT Manager (Boston, MA) and Director of Rehabilitation (Melbourne, Australia).The NAPA Center integrates and endorses specific approaches and products featured in this guide including: NeuroSuit, Theratogs, mirror therapy, Cuevas MEDEK Exercise (CME), Task Specific Electrical Stimulation (TASES), VitalStim, Galileo vibration plate, Total Motion Release (TMR), Schroth Method, 24 Hour Postural Care, Kinesio Taping Method, Trexo Robotics, Neurac Redcord, cage therapy, wilbarger brushing protocol, The Listening Program, and Astronaut Training. Kathryn A. LeMonda in her individual capacity, as well as The NAPA Center, receive no additional compensation for these endorsements and relationships.



KALeMonda_IntegrativePracticesHandbook.pdf
Integrative Practice Reference Guide.pdf