Welcome to the Thrive blog
This is Elizabeth Hickman, owner and founder of Thrive Therapy. I scour medical journals, recent research and websites for information to share. Sometimes I curate breaking news on the neuroplasticity of the brain, nutrition’s impact on neurological health and other times I write posts that may give you a laugh. Everyone needs a little levity from time to time. Check back here for updates or sign up for email updates.
The Importance of Crawling
UncategorizedParents eagerly watch as baby lifts up, knees and arms pushing firmly into the ground. His gaze lands on a toy in front of him. Soon he’s moving hand over hand, knee over knee, ready to explore his world with a sparkle of independence in his eye. Crawling helps introduce bilateral coordination, both sides of the body working in tandem. While this infant milestone recently fell off the CDC ‘checklist,’ the fact remains that the movement is not only significant but foundational to our development.
ATNR
UncategorizedAsymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) is a turning movement of the head and the neck, which causes extension of the limbs and the same side of the body and flexion of the limbs on the opposite side of the body. This primitive movement pattern creates the first sensory motor connections to the right and left hemispheres leading us to an understanding that we have both a right and left side.
Red, White and Boom
UncategorizedIt wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without a host of firework-fueled celebrations this week. Fireworks, the result of burning chemical mixtures that explode from their packaging into crackles, pops and thunderous booms, are striking displays against the night’s sky. The loud noises and unpredictable flashes of light are also incredibly stimulating, especially in a crowded, often hot setting. For those with auditory processing and sensory challenges, they may be the hardest part of the holiday.
The Power of Self- Exploration
Uncategorized“Every time we teach a child something, we keep him from inventing it himself. On the other hand, that which we allow him to discover for himself will remain with him visible for the rest of his life.” – Jean Piaget
Our earliest form of learning is through self-exploration and play. In fact, a report by the LEGO Foundation examined 26 studies of play in 18 countries and found that children show significantly greater gains in literacy, motor, social-emotional development and math skills in an environment that allows a mix of free play with instructional learning.
Thrive on the Road
Uncategorized“Each time I attend a workshop with Elizabeth at Thrive, I have a light bulb moment! RMTi has expanded my understanding of reflex integration as a whole and has led […]