Why We Recommend Rhythmic Movement at Home
In our home exercise programs, we often recommend Rhythmic Movement—and for good reason. It’s simple for parents to do, highly effective once you get into a rhythm, and fits seamlessly into daily routines.
The key? Establishing it as a micro habit. Just like brushing teeth or reading a bedtime story, when rhythmic movements become a small, consistent part of your child’s day, they can make a big difference.
So, What Is Rhythmic Movement?
Rhythmic Movement refers to gentle, repetitive rocking and rolling patterns. They’re modeled after the spontaneous movements babies naturally make during early development—like rocking on hands and knees, or rolling side to side.
These movements do more than look calming—they’re working behind the scenes to:
1.Integrate primitive reflexes
2.Strengthen brain-body connections
3.Support motor coordination, focus, and emotional regulation
In short, these movements help organize the nervous system. And when the nervous system is better organized, kids can move, learn, and regulate more easily.
Why It Works at Home
Rhythmic Movement doesn’t require fancy equipment or big chunks of time. A few minutes a day—done consistently—is often enough to begin seeing positive changes in your child’s posture, attention, and self-regulation. Once it becomes part of the routine, it just flows.
We’ve seen kids go from fidgety and unfocused to calm and centered—with just a little consistent practice.
A Personal Note: Learning from Moira Dempsey
In June 2024, I had the privilege of attending the RMTi Levels 1 & 2 Conference in Kalispell, Montana, led by none other than Moira Dempsey herself. It was a truly special event.
Moira’s warmth, wisdom, and passion for helping individuals with retained primitive reflexes were evident in every word she shared. Originally from Australia, she continues to travel the world—bringing her knowledge to therapists, educators, and parents across the globe, including right here in the United States.
P.S The only state in the U.S Moira hasn't travel is Maine (hint: Let's bring Moira and learn RMTi together).
One message that deeply resonated with me was this:
Rhythmic Movement is simple, but its impact is profound.
When the nervous system lacks a strong, integrated foundation, children often face more challenges—delays in learning, emotional regulation, and motor skills. But with consistent, gentle movement, we can support that foundation in a meaningful, accessible way.
