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Here's our family's story and the path we took to help Mark recover from lead poisoning and some learning issues. Read Mark's Story
This was recommended in the book "When the Brain Can't Hear" by Terri James Bellis, and we had heard positive feedback from clinicians and parents. It is inexpensive and it can be done at home on your PC. They have not performed formal studies but have success stories and testimonials from school districts, clinicians, and parents.
The Program
A child can start as early as four years old and work their way through the program. It requires them to listen and pay attention and respond in a timely manner. Kids are motivated by the circles that are filled in as they progress through the program. Earobics does allow you to clearly see your child's auditory deficits and you can supplement with other games as well.
The only downside we noticed was that you don't have to play each of the games every time you log on. One child, for example, completed one whole section that was easy for him and was left with an entire section of one that was difficult, so it became less motivating. It may be helpful to set expectations for what you would like to see your child do and supervise them to make sure they are hitting on each part of the program.
Cost
In our home, we did notice an improvement in listening and concentration after using Earobics, although it was more subtle than Interactive Metronome. It does make a great supplement to another program and helps to reinforce listening skills. The cost of this program is around $65.
Handle Therapy
This is a very personalized program with a very thorough assessment. They believe in listening to your body and gently nudging you along. You notice subtle differences that build and eventually realize a more noticeable shift.
The Program
It requires commitment to a series of exercise that a parent does with their child each day, but if done, progress is seen. The exercises vary based on the individual's strengths and weaknesses and the person's own comfort level for what feels right for them. After the initial assessment (which is usually around 4 hours), you check in once a month for six months to determine which exercises have been mastered and which still need to be worked through. Each session is taped so you can go back and review the exercises to be sure you are doing them correctly. The sessions are conducted by occupational therapists who have received further training in this gentle enhancement program.
Cost
The cost of the program is around $1,500. Since the program is administered by occupational therapists, check with your insurance to see if coverage is provided.
Occupational Therapy
One on one tailored occupational therapy has been of great benefit to millions of children across the United States.
The Program
The therapist will do a detailed assessment of your child and provide you with feedback on deficits as well as strengths. They help with sensory integration dysfunction, handwriting, daily living skills, motor planning, and coordination. Most children really enjoy going especially in a bright colored gym environment that is stimulating for them. However, because it is therapy, they will get pushed outside of their comfort zone and some may complain, but will continue to go because they see the benefit.
It is important to get the right therapist for your child and if there is friction at all between yourself or your child and the therapist, then you should look into another therapist. You want to see steady progress and be informed of treatments you can be doing at home to compliment the therapy.
To find an Occupational Therapist please visit the following sites:
http://www.sinetwork.org/directory/search.html
http://www.aota.org/
Your child's pediatrician may also have some occupational therapist contacts and your child may also be eligible to receive occupational therapy through the school or state.
Cost
Fees vary around the U.S., but a session runs around $100-$150 per hour. Check with your insurance as OT may be covered under your plan.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy for children is used to help children improve their communication skills (including sign language), treat disorder such as stuttering, and help children with articulation and language. Like occupational and physical therapy, the therapist will start with an evaluation to determine the type of treatment, if necessary, that will most benefit your child. Speech therapy treatment plans vary widely based on children's individual needs. Some therapists do provide group therapies for parents who are looking to help their children with both speech and social skills. Therapists may use resources such as Earobics, Fast Forward, IM, etc. as part of their therapy plan. Speech therapy prices vary widely depending on if the session is for an individual, group, and tools being used.
Speech therapy is also provided through schools and the state if your child is under 3 and qualifies.
Music Lessons
Music requires both the left and right brain; thereby naturally synchronizing the brain. There are a number of therapeutic music companies throughout the U.S., who are trained in music and sometimes other therapies such as behavioral and speech. These therapies allow the child to be successful and involved in an activity that many of their friends at school are involved in. To find a music therapist in your area, send an email to findMT@musictherapy.org.
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