
KoganSteps
Curriculum Outline
Functional Movement – A New Direction in the Treatment of Autism and Other Neurological Dysfunction
· Why researchers now call for a body-oriented approach
· Engage the brain via the body
· Understand and teach functional movement and motor control
· Use the 3 basic elements of all physical activity (Space, Time, Energy) to improve motor movement, social skills, and attention.
Current Research on Movement, Socialization, and the Autistic Child
· Current theories on how movement affects “Theory of Mind”
· Movement and the development of social skills, self-perception, intersubjectivity and empathy (related intensions and emotions).
· The concept of “universality” - the power of moving together
The Link Between the Mirror Neuron System, Movement, Imitation and Functional Behavior
· Understanding the biology of autism
· Harnessing the Mirror Neuron System to help children move more effectively, learn better, and improve socialization.
Evaluation – The Movement Evaluation Continuum - A New Theoretical Framework to Assess a Child’s Ability to Move Functionally
· Identify movement deficits
· Create activities to address those deficits
· Integrate new knowledge into your current treatment plan
Understanding the Relationship Between Music and Movement
· Why it works to improve skills in neurotypical children
· What is Joint Attention and Joint Engagement
· Effective Musical Strategies that any therapist can use
Rhythmic Cueing – the link between music and motor behavior
Skills that help turn Theory into Practice
· Repetition, Routines, Predictability
· Anticipation/Inhibition
· Imitation/Inhibition
· Understanding a child’s body image
· Authentic movement
· Visuals and Props
· Attention and Co-contraction
· Think Before You Move
· Vocalizations and Singing
· Gestures
· Action Plus Sound
Lab Work - Experience Eight Movement Studies to teach and inspire
· The Tire Dance
· The Plate Dance
· The Card Dance
· The Weight Dance
· The Mountain
· The Mozart
· The Shape Dance
· The Scarf Dance
Clarify and integrate movement vocabulary
Using case studies, collaborate with peers to create your own movement studies and make the material your own.
Areas of Caution
· Touch policies in the school
· Respecting the child’s terms
· Safety
Conclusion