by Ulrika Myhr | Feb 29, 2024 | Functional variation
Over the past six months, I have encountered parents who, during visits to the pediatric neurologist, have been, to say the least, horrified. Their children, under 1 year old, have received diagnoses, but what’s worse, the parents have been given the message that ‘there’s nothing you can do or train, no, the child shouldn’t have to do that, it won’t help anyway’. Perhaps the doctor has a different understanding of what was said, but unfortunately, I’ve heard this for several years and choose to believe the parents. A mother said, ‘What do they want? Do they want us to throw her to the wolves?’ – mostly horrified by the way they’ve been treated. One family was so devastated that they went to their home country to seek support. This raises many questions about attitude and prognosis that no one has asked for, and above all – how can one not expect any development? And how can one say that training shouldn’t be done? If one has that attitude, then perhaps alarm bells should ring – maybe what we’re doing are the wrong interventions since they’re not helping? The need for knowledge regarding training and treatment of children – not just compensatory measures, but teaching children to control their bodies – that science needs to be supported and developed. When pediatric neurologists convey contradictory messages, it can lead to confusion and frustration among parents. It may undermine their confidence in the medical advice they receive and hinder their ability to make informed decisions about their child’s care. This inconsistency can also impact the child’s treatment and progress, as conflicting guidance may result in hesitation or reluctance to pursue certain interventions. Ultimately, clear and consistent communication between medical professionals and families is essential for effective collaboration and the best outcomes for the child.
by Ulrika Myhr | Feb 23, 2024 | Motor development
In recent weeks, both newspapers and TV news have highlighted that children’s motor skills have declined – that they can’t use scissors or do somersaults like before. The decline begins already in the newborn stage because children´s motor skills develop better in the prone position, and tummy time is often lacking. In prone, one learns how to understand how to lift the body up from having floated weightlessly in the womb before birth. Understanding, problem-solving, and motor skills are interconnected – the brain develops less if motor skills deteriorate. We need to understand this and implement measures so that all children can feel good both physically and mentally. Here is a contributiont to the debate from Learn to Move.
by Ulrika Myhr | Feb 23, 2024 | Tips & advice
For many years, bObles’ delightful animals have been a favorite, and now they are available for purchase in the Learn to Move webshop. These movement furniture pieces can be used in many different ways depending on the child’s age and ability. They are stable yet lightweight and silent – perfect for children to be active even indoors. They last forever! A good environment is important and prevails over passive play – the crocodile, the elephant, or the anteater, among others. challenges motor skills, creativity, imagination, and cognition. We highly recommend them for both home and preschool use – see more at Learn to Moves webshop.
by Ulrika Myhr | Nov 9, 2023 | Education, Motor development
The motor development of the very youngest is extremely important for the overall development of the child. Motor skills influence cognition and attention. Now, Expo Medica’s full day on motor development is returning. The course takes place in Stockholm on November 30th. At this full-day training, you will learn about current issues and how to support children and parents for a positive development. The newborn period up to 3 months is crucial for a good start and avoiding common issues. The course discusses, for example, WHY tummy time is so important, when it should be initiated, and when head control should be fully programmed.
More information and registration.
by Ulrika Myhr | Nov 9, 2023 | Exhibition, Learn to walk, Okategoriserad
The assistive devices fair in Älvsjö was incredibly enjoyable to participate in, and that’s where Learn to Walk Learn to Walk was introduced. The interest was significant, and many commented that Learn to Walk is a much-awaited product that they would also like to see available for older individuals. Raising expectations for children to learn to walk independently is, of course, positive news. We hope that those who stopped by at the fair will also reach out when you want to try or learn more about Learn to Walk. Thank you to everyone who contributed before the fair!
