Dynamic Core for Kids: Stability in Action

Overview

This 15-hour course is designed to equip pediatric rehabilitation professionals with the knowledge, clinical reasoning, and tools to apply a systems based, neuromuscular central control framework to the specific needs of a variety of neurodiverse children: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy (CP), Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), hypotonia, and more.

The primary course content is divided into 2 days.

Day 1:

Clinicians will be introduced to a neuromuscular, systems approach to central control (Core Strategy) that is distinct from traditional concepts of core strength. This integrative model uses the diaphragm and breathing mechanics as an access point for central control (aka core stability). This attainable and relevant starting point for pediatric populations impacts multiple intertwined systems including postural control, balance, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and functional gross and fine motor skills.

The development of and challenges to central control in neurotypical and neurodiverse populations are discussed.

A specific assessment model of the elements of the central control system (diaphragm, abdominal wall, pelvic floor, and pressure system) is provided. An intertwined understanding of the influence of alignment and external support to optimize the availability of the elements of this system is demonstrated.

Day 2:

Participants will learn to integrate Core Strategy into treatment, movement, and functional activities that have immediate application to a variety of clinical settings (direct treatment, school, and home programs).

Case presentations and small group learning will promote concept synthesis and clinical reasoning to implement Core Strategy in clients of differing ages (preschoolers age 2+, school age and teens) and diagnoses.

Participants will also discuss how to integrate Core Strategy Techniques with Neuro-Developmental Treatment handling skills and sensory processing intervention to support a greater range of clients.

Learning Objectives

In this online course, we will:

• Describe the difference between a neuromuscular, systems approach to dynamic central control (‘Core Strategy’) and the traditional musculoskeletal, strength-based concept of ‘core stability’. 
• Articulate the differences in the development of Core Strategy between neurotypical and neurodiverse children.
• Identify the contribution of an efficient and effective core strategy to the development of emotional regulation.
• Evaluate the behaviour and function of the diaphragm, transversus abdominis, pelvic floor, and intra-abdominal pressure system, both as individual components and collectively as an interconnected deep central control system.
• Develop a well-reasoned thought process to individualize a treatment strategy that balances and encourages teamwork for elements of the deep central control system. 
• Provide alignment cueing and external support options to optimize the availability of the elements of the deep central control system.
• Utilize breath mechanics strategies as a pediatric-friendly entry point to access and encourage teamwork in the deep central control system and support movement and function. 
• Implement clinical strategies that integrate a deep to superficial framework of neuromuscular system integration as an underpinning for function, balance, and gross and fine motor skills.

Audience

This course is intended for rehabilitation professionals. The course focus on clinical assessment, clinical reasoning and treatment strategy falls under the scope of rehabilitative intervention. Other professionals enter into this for informational purposes only to be understood and applied within their state/jurisdictional scope of practice.