Gwen Wild – 2-Day Neuro-Based Self-Regulation Toolbox For Children and Adolescents

Outline

Neurological Development

• Latest research on neurological differences associated with:
  • Motor skills, sensory processing, language development, self-regulation and learning
• Hindrances to typical brain development
• Structural brain differences and neurochemistry in common diagnoses and symptoms
• A bottoms-up model for brain-based intervention
• Video labs and hands-on brain models

Assessment of Neurological Functioning

• SPD vs ADHD
• Sensory vs behavior
• Behavior disorders
• Standardized assessment tools
• Behavior analysis
• Easily accessible checklists and questionnaires

Build a Strong Neurological Foundation

• Sensory-motor activities to build strong neural connections between key brain regions
• Strengthen the insular cortex to improve emotional awareness
• Strategies to stimulate the vagal nerve to power up the parasympathetic nervous system
• Integrate primitive reflexes to enhance posture, motor control, and emotional responses
• Case Study: 16-year-old boy with HFA, SPD and EF challenges
• Lab: 1) Acupoint tapping; 2) Vagal stimulation activity

Using Neuroplasticity to Repair/Rebuild Affected Brain Structures

• Restore balance between the frontal cortex and the amygdala to decrease sensory sensitivities, anxiety and aggression
• Auditory stimulation to facilitate a calm and focused state
• Yoga and mindfulness strategies to reduce an overactive fight-or-flight response
• Proprioceptive, vestibular and tactile input to regulate emotional responses, reduce self-stimming, self-injury and anxiety
• Lab: 1) Joint compressions 2) Rhythmic movements

Neurochemistry’s Impact on Behavior, Emotions, Motor Skills and Learning

• Primary role of major neurotransmitters
• Signs and symptoms of neurotransmitter imbalance
• Correlation between neurotransmitters, sensory processing and emotions
• Evidence-based strategies for neurotransmitter deficits/excesses
• Case Study: 12-year-old girl, trauma history, extreme tactile sensitivities, atypical social behaviors
• Lab: Change your own neurochemistry now!

Targeting Higher Level Brain Centers

• CBT to identify triggers and manage emotions
• Behavior mapping to improve self-awareness
• Social stories and video modeling to target mirror neurons and teach appropriate responses
• Programs to improve social skills and manage physiological response to conflict and stress
• Token economy to address self-regulation
• Case Study: 6-year-old boy, off-task and fidgety behaviors
• Lab: 1) binaural beats to impact brain waves 2) Mindfulness activity to balance neurotransmitters

The Role of Medication

• Perspectives on medication
• Commonly prescribed medications for childhood diagnoses
• Supplements to consider
• Case Study: 11-year-old boy, difficulty with attention, differentiating symptoms of ADHD vs. SPD

Brain Health

• Nutrients for neurotransmitter production
• Sleep hygiene
• Nature
• Physical Health
• Use of electronics and video games
• Case Study: 21-year-old with autism, severe sleep disorder, obesity

Clinical Considerations

• Goal-writing
• Data-tracking
• Limitations of research and potential risks