Improving ADHD Through Reflex Integration Techniques
A systematic review and meta-analysis from 2023 revealed a connection between retained primitive reflexes and ADHD. By integrating primitive reflexes, therapists can help children access the higher learning centers of their brain, thus reducing ADHD symptoms. This 2-hour course provides intervention strategies to improve reflex integration, ocular motor skills, and multi-sensory processing to assist children with improving ADHD symptoms in a variety of settings.
Learning Outcomes
Identify the functional impact of retained primitive reflexes in the classroom environment.
State the connection between ADHD and retained primitive reflexes.
List classroom modifications to implement for children with ADHD who have retained primitive reflexes.
Identify play-based, movement interventions to include in the classroom to promote integration of retained primitive reflexes.
List three evidence-based strategies to improve the academic performance of children with ADHD.
Course Information
Target Audience: pediatric OTs, COTAs, educators, mental health practitioners, and other pediatric professionals
Sensational Brain LLC is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development (#8215). PD activity approval ID# 09392. This distance learning, interactive activity is offered at 0.2 CEUs, Introductory level, OT Delivery Service, Foundational Knowledge. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA or indicate AOTA approval of a certification or other professional recognition.
Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, is a pediatric occupational therapy assistant, passionate about sensory integration, primitive reflexes, and early intervention. In October 2020, Rachel took over Sensational Brain, previously owned by Gwen Wild, MOT, OTR/L, in which she has rebranded and expanded into new courses, products, and more!
In addition to Sensational Brain, Rachel founded The Sensory Project, which shares simple sensory strategies and tips and handmade sensory tools on Etsy. She works part-time with Harkla to create sensory-related content for parents and therapists through a podcast, courses, and more.
Rachel is passionate about sharing her knowledge of sensory integration by participating in speaking engagements with nonprofit organizations, schools, childcare centers, and community events to increase early identification of sensory processing challenges.
Rachel lives in Boise, Idaho, with her husband, two young children and golden retriever, where they are always hiking, exploring or spending time with family.
Disclosures
Financial: Rachel is the owner of Sensational Brain LLC and receives proceeds from all sales and co-hosts All Things Sensory by Harkla Podcast.
Nonfinancial: Rachel works part-time with Harkla Co.