Sensory issues in kids can manifest in various ways, from being overly sensitive to light, sound, and textures to not responding to sensory input that typically catches the brain’s attention. These issues often stem from a disorganized brain, resulting from developmental milestones not fully achieved during infancy. In particular, an underdeveloped pons and midbrain, coupled with retained primitive reflexes, play a significant role in these challenges.
The Disorganized Brain and Sensory Issues
The brain’s development is a complex process that begins even before birth. However, certain infancy stages are critical to ensuring that the brain’s structure and function are properly organized. When these stages are not adequately completed, it can lead to what we refer to as a “disorganized brain,” which in turn can result in sensory processing issues.
1. Underdeveloped Pons:
The pons is a critical part of the brainstem that plays a role in basic functions such as breathing and sleep, as well as the fight-flight-freeze-fawn response. An underdeveloped pons is often linked to a lack of creeping during infancy.
Creeping, the movement where a baby propel themselves forward on their belly, is essential for the proper development of the pons. When a child does not creep enough, their pons may not develop fully, leading to hypersensitivity to certain stimuli later on due to the brain being stuck in survival mode.
2. Underdeveloped Midbrain:
The midbrain is like the brain’s filter. It determines what sensory information needs immediate attention and what can be processed later. This filtering is crucial for managing sensory input without becoming overwhelmed.
Crawling is the activity that helps develop the midbrain. If a baby doesn’t crawl sufficiently, the midbrain may remain underdeveloped, resulting in difficulties filtering sensory information. This can lead to hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli.
3. Retained Primitive Reflexes:
Primitive reflexes are automatic movements that are vital in early development. These reflexes should typically integrate or “turn off” as a child matures.
However, if they remain beyond infancy, they can cause sensory processing issues. For instance:
- Moro Reflex: Often linked to a heightened startle response and hypersensitivity to sensory input.
- Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR): Associated with poor balance and coordination, which can affect how a child processes movement-based sensory input.
- Spinal Galant Reflex: This can lead to difficulties with sitting still, often due to sensitivity to touch and pressure on the back.
The Midbrain’s Role in Sensory Processing
The midbrain’s role as a sensory filter cannot be overstated. In a well-organized brain, the midbrain effectively tells the rest of the brain what sensory information to focus on and what can be filtered out. This function is crucial in preventing sensory overload and ensuring that a child can engage with their environment without becoming overwhelmed. When the midbrain is disorganized due to insufficient crawling, this filtering mechanism is compromised, leading to sensory processing difficulties.
Addressing Sensory Issues with the In the Cortex Brain Reorganization Program
Understanding the root cause of sensory issues in kids is the first step toward addressing them. The good news is that a disorganized brain can be reorganized. The In the Cortex Brain Reorganization Program offers a non-invasive, movement-based approach to helping children (and adults) reorganize their brains. This program helps members practice movements like creeping and crawling. These activities integrate basic reflexes. They also support the development of important brain areas, such as the pons and midbrain.
The program is designed to be accessible and is online, meaning it can be done anywhere in the world, at any time. It’s a holistic approach that addresses the underlying neurological causes of sensory issues, offering a path to improved sensory processing and overall well-being.
If your child is struggling with sensory issues, consider exploring the In the Cortex Brain Reorganization Program. It’s a gentle yet effective way to support your child’s neurological development and help them better navigate the sensory world around them.By addressing the foundational neurological causes of sensory issues, you can empower your child to experience the world with greater ease and comfort. For more information on how the In the Cortex Brain Reorganization Program can help, click here.
