# 325 The Pediatric Brain…Functional Neurobiology and the Sensory Systems: Application to creative treatment and functional gains

# 325 The Pediatric Brain…Functional Neurobiology and the Sensory Systems: Application to creative treatment and functional gains is organized by MotivationsCEU.

Description:
This course will provide rehabilitation therapists with a deeper understanding of the complex multi-system involvement of the brain in reflex integration, movement, learning, and daily functioning. The instructor will use innovative and multi-sensory approaches to help participants relate the information to their everyday practice. The first day of the course will focus on the functional aspects of neuroanatomy.

The second day will focus on the interaction between the vestibular-visual systems. The visual system is often overlooked by both  therapists and the instructor strives to provide therapists with a new perspective to demonstrate the importance of incorporating visual dysfunction within their vestibular treatment. The visual system has an enormous impact on the precise functioning of the vestibular system and dysfunction can result in poor performance across all areas of a child's function. Participants will review real life cases through video to enhance understanding of the material. This course has application for Speech Therapy practice by providing a better understanding of cognitive development for applying treatment concepts.

At the end of this two-day course, therapists will have a proficient functional knowledge of neuroanatomy and the visual-vestibular systems in the dysfunctional pediatric population, and immediately utilize this knowledge to augment their current practice.

Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the stages of development of the central nervous system in utero and how early neural development impacts behavior, movement, and sensory processing.
2. Explain the functions of the brainstem, cerebral cortices, thalamus, and insula, and understand how these structures influence motor control, emotional regulation, and cognition in pediatric development
3. Recognize the role of the cerebellum and basal ganglia in sensory processing and motor control, and explore how playbased therapeutic activities can support these systems in developing children
4. Explain the role of neurotransmitters in regulating the nervous system and their impact on emotional regulation and behavior, particularly in pediatric populations
5. Summarize the autonomic nervous system's role in regulating emotion and behavior and learn how play interventions can help modulate autonomic responses to promote emotional regulation.
6. Describe polyvagal theory and its correlation to sensory processing and apply these concepts in treatment strategies using play to enhance sensory integration and emotional regulation.
7. Identify the primitive reflexes associated with developing head control and emotional regulation and integrate functional play-based activities to assess and treat these reflexes.
8. Assess and treat primitive reflexes (including Moro Reflex, Fear Paralysis Reflex, Hands Pulling Reflex, Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex, Landau Reflex, and Symmetric Tonic Neck Reflex) through engaging, developmentally appropriate play-based interventions.
9. Recognize the role of the somatosensory system, visual, and vestibular systems in motor control, emotional regulation, and behavior, and incorporate sensory-rich play activities to address these systems in therapy.
10. Demonstrate five specific play-based treatment activities that integrate neurobiological concepts to enhance motor skills, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and cognitive development in pediatric therapy.