What Is Neurodevelopment?
Neurodevelopment is the incredible journey of a child’s brain as it grows, matures, and builds the foundations for everything they’ll do—think, feel, move, and connect with others. From the moment of conception through adolescence (and even into adulthood), the brain forms neurons (its building blocks), weaves intricate neural connections, and fine-tunes its structure. This process is what allows a baby to go from reflexive kicks to purposeful steps, from coos to conversations, and from simple emotions to complex relationships.
In our practice, we see neurodevelopment as the roadmap for a child’s abilities. When it unfolds smoothly, kids hit milestones like grasping toys, stacking blocks, or sharing with friends. But when there are bumps—like delays or differences—it’s our job to step in with strategies to support that growth.
Why Movement Is a Game-Changer
If I could shout one thing from the rooftops, it’s this: movement is magic for the brain. It’s not just about burning energy; it’s how kids wire their brains for learning and life. When a child crawls, climbs, or dances, they’re sparking neural connections that boost everything from problem-solving to emotional regulation.
Think about a baby rolling over for the first time. That simple act isn’t just cute—it’s activating reflexes and building pathways in the brain. Experts like Carla Hannaford, author of Smart Moves, remind us that learning isn’t just a head game; it’s a whole-body experience. Physical activity in early childhood lights up brain regions, helping kids process sensory input and sharpen skills like language or focus.
For kids with challenges, like those with autism or sensory processing differences, movement can be a lifeline. we often draw from methods like Dr. Svetlana Masgutova’s reflex integration work, which uses specific movements to help “wake up” or calm down parts of the nervous system. It’s amazing to see a child who struggles with balance or coordination start to thrive after we work on those foundational patterns.
Nature and Nurture: Partners in Development
Here’s a question I get a lot: “Is it genetics or how we raise them?” The answer? Both. It’s like a dance between nature (the genes kids inherit) and nurture (the world they grow up in). Genetics hand over the blueprint—maybe a knack for music or a tendency toward shyness. But the environment—think playtime, nutrition, love, or even stress—decides how that blueprint gets built.
In my sessions, we see this interplay every day. A child might have a genetic predisposition for motor delays, but with a home full of encouragement and opportunities to move, they can catch up beautifully. On the flip side, a child with every genetic advantage might struggle if they’re stuck in a car seat too long or miss out on rich experiences. Studies show kids in stimulating environments—think books, songs, and messy play—often have stronger cognitive and emotional skills. It’s why we're always encourages parents on simple ways to nurture that growth, like tummy time or outdoor adventures.
What’s Up with Autism Rates?
As an occupational therapist, I work with many kids on the autism spectrum, and families often ask, “Why does it seem so common now?” The truth is, it’s a mix of factors, and it’s not just one simple answer.
First, awareness and diagnosis have skyrocketed. Years ago, a child might’ve been labeled “quirky” or overlooked entirely. Now, with better screening and broader criteria, we’re catching more cases—about 1 in 36 kids in the U.S., according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
But there’s more to it. Socioemotional factors play a role too. Stress or trauma in early life—like a chaotic home or big changes—can shape how the brain develops, sometimes nudging it toward traits we see in autism, like sensory sensitivities or social challenges. Dr. Gabor Maté, a trauma expert, talks about how early stress can leave lasting marks on a child’s nervous system. Add in modern shifts—like more screen time, less free play, or even environmental exposures—and it’s a recipe for change.
Genetics are still a big piece of the puzzle, but it’s not the whole story. We tell families it’s like planting a seed: the seed’s quality matters, but so does the soil, water, and sunlight. In therapy, we focus on what we can nurture—movement, connection, and calm—to help every child bloom.
Bringing It All Together in Therapy
So, how do we use this in our work? Here’s a peek:
- Movement-Based Activities: Whether it’s bouncing on a therapy ball or practicing reflex patterns, I help kids build those brain connections. For a child with autism, this might mean calming an overactive startle reflex to ease sensory overload.
- Family Tips: We encourage parents on weaving movement into daily life—think park playdates or nature walk. It’s nurture in action.
- Holistic Support: Knowing stress or trauma might be in the mix, we create safe, predictable spaces in sessions, helping kids feel secure so their brains can grow.
Every child’s neurodevelopment is unique, shaped by their genes and their world. My goal? To meet them where they are, use movement as our superpower, and guide them toward their best selves—one playful step at a time.
This is the lens we bring as a pediatric occupational therapist: science meets heart, with a big dose of practical know-how. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious, understanding this process can light the way to supporting every child’s growth. Let’s keep them moving, exploring, and thriving!