Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) for Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologists

Instructor: Rona Alexander, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: SLP

This seminar has been designed for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with infants, children, and adolescents with neuromuscular involvement. Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) is an interdisciplinary, hands-on, problem-solving approach used in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with neurological pathophysiology resulting in neuromuscular and musculo-skeletal impairments. This seminar will introduce SLPs to a foundation of knowledge in the NDT philosophy and how it applies to speech-language pathology especially in regard to treatment services for children with feeding and swallowing, respiratory-phonatory, and communication issues. Participants will engage in group movement labs for the practice of hands-on procedures focusing on the relationship between postural alignment and movement and changes in oral, pharyngeal, and respiratory function for the achievement of SLP-specific functional outcomes.

Pediatric Upper Extremity Handling – Towards Participation Goals

Instructor: Kate Bain, HScD, OT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP

This seminar includes didactic, lab, and video treatment demonstrations for participants to analyze typical and atypical task-based posture and movement control, focused on the upper extremities – in relation to other body segments. The central theme will be learning about and practising handling/treatment strategies towards goal- related functional change in requested daily tasks. In addition, participants will have an opportunity to learn about research in contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model, with a focus on functional outcome measurement related to, for example, upper extremity function.

Introduction to Contemporary practice in NDT

Instructors: Suzanne Davis Bombria, PT, DPT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) is one of the most utilized approaches with children who have neuro- muscular impairments. Find out what is new in NDT and how it relates to evidence-based practice. Move from science to direct clinical application in treatment for functional outcomes. In-depth assessment, analysis and treatment planning will be addressed in a format that leads the therapist to prioritized treatment strategies based on desired functional outcomes. Typical and atypical development will be studied to provide a framework for analysis. Methods of instruction include lecture, slides, video, practice labs, and live treatment demonstration.

Starting Out right: Using NDT with Infants and Young Children

Instructor: Colleen Carey, DPT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP

This seminar is designed for the physical therapist, occupational therapist or speech-language pathologist seeking an understanding of contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model for infants with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders. This seminar is very attractive to clinicians who seek a better understanding of contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model and the use of handling and facilitation to enhance function. Seminar material will focus on basic concepts of theory, assessment and treatment of the infant with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders. The seminar will include extensive lab sessions and case studies to reinforce didactic information.

Introduction to NDT: The Basics for Pediatric Therapists

Instructor: Debbie Evans-Rogers, PT, PhD, PCS, C/NDT and Kim Westhoff, OTR/L, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: Pediatric PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar will focus on introducing pediatric OTs, PTs, and SLPs to NDT handling techniques for the pediatric client with neuromuscular challenges. Information presented will address current contemporary NDT principles including beginning assessment/evaluation and problem-solving handling techniques. Participants will be assisted to improve their observational skills, as well as direct handling skills while problem-solving using NDT techniques to improve function for their pediatric clients.

Off We Go: Utilizing the NDT Practice Model in the Treatment of Children with Neurological Impairments

Instructor: Jacqueline Grimenstein, PT, C/NDT, CKTP

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

Begin your journey into the world of NDT or expand your current knowledge with this seminar that will enhance your knowledge of the benefits of using NDT to treat the child with neurological impairments and pediatric disorders across the lifespan. Facilitation strategies for improved movement patterns and how to look at all aspects of the child to assess the primary area to address in treatment will be presented utilizing didactic, video and hands-on lab format. Comfortable clothing for movement labs is recommended. This seminar is designed for the physical therapist, occupational therapist, or speech-language pathologist. This seminar is very attractive to clinicians who seek a better understanding of contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model and the use of handling and facilitation to enhance function. Seminar material will focus on basic concepts of theory and the assessment and treatment of the child with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders. The seminar will include extensive lab sessions and case studies to reinforce didactic information.

Sticking Together: The Use of NDT, Therapeutic Taping, and Strengthening

Instructor: Jacqueline Grimenstein, PT, C/NDT, CKTP

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

Enhance therapy outcomes in your pediatric clients using a combination of therapeutic taping and strengthening techniques utilizing problem-solving based on the NDT Practice Model. Practice taping with a variety of materials on other class participants. Strengthening strategies will be presented to enhance the new alignment achieved though taping and NDT facilitation techniques. Examples of intervention with children through videotape and case studies will reinforce learning. What will be covered: Problem-solving using contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model; theory and principles of taping as adjunct to therapy; kinesiotaping techniques for improved function; rigid strapping taping techniques for improved alignment; and strengthening activities including utilization of pilates, Theraband™, and swiss ball to be used in conjunction with presented taping techniques.

Comfortable clothing for movement labs is recommended. This seminar is designed for the physical therapist, occupational therapist or speech-language pathologist. This seminar is very attractive to clinicians who seek a better understanding of how the NDT Practice Model can be combined with other treatment techniques. Seminar material will focus on basic concepts of theory, assessment and treatment of the child with cerebral palsy and other neuromuscular disorders. The seminar will include extensive lab sessions and case studies to reinforce didactic information.

A Dynamic Base of Support: The Key to Enhancing Function

Instructor: Margo Prim Haynes, PT, DPT, MA, PCS, C/NDT and Mary Rose Franjoine, PT, DPT, MS, PCS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

During this seminar, participants will be introduced to the literature related to the development of postural control. Using various media, practice, small group discussions, and demonstration, participants will have the opportunity to identify typical and atypical patterns of muscle recruitment, and an active dynamic base of support. Participants will learn strategies to facilitate and guide selected functional activities by first identifying and creating a dynamic BOS. Participants will practice how to provide three-dimensional graded handling (sagittal, frontal, and transverse plane) facilitating the child to work from an active base for enhanced function. Clinical decision-making indicators that govern the selection, modification, and fading of NDT-based handing strategies will be discussed.

Postural Control and the Baby: An NDT Guide for Treatment

Instructors: Margo Prim Haynes, PT, DPT, MA, PCS, C/NDT and Jan McElroy, PT, PHD, PCS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

In this seminar, participants will examine the most current postural control literature and discuss how postural control theory and research can be blended with NDT concepts and intervention specific for babies. The information will be discussed within the framework of contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model with strategies to obtain maximal functional progress. Didactic information will be combined with daily labs and with baby obser- vations through videos for optimal application to infant examination/evaluation and intervention.

Clinical Problem-Solving and Therapeutic Handling for Function – The NDT Way!

Instructor: Margo Prim Haynes, PT, DPT, MA, PCS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar will focus on strategies to advance the participant’s knowledge and practice in NDT-based problem-solving and therapeutic handing to assist clients with mastery of age appropriate functional outcomes. Current literature will be blended into the NDT-based problem-solving and therapeutic intervention discussions and practice. Specific characteristics of the postural system and movement system will be analyzed in relationship to specific functional tasks. Focus will be on interactive learning and critical thinking to allow the participant to effectively select and practice clinically relevant treatment strategies for their clients based on age appropriate functional outcomes. Didactic classroom and laboratory-based learning experiences coupled with video based analysis of children and patient demonstrations will provide the clinician with knowledge and skills which can be applied upon return to the clinical environment.

Treatment and Management of Children with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy

Instructor: Kacy Hertz, PT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP

This seminar provides an approach to treatment and management of children with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy using contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Assessment, task analysis, treatment planning, and treatment skills will be covered. Seminar instruction includes didactic work, labs, and two demos/practicums to allow hands on experience and practice. This is a great seminar for pediatric therapists working with children who have Cerebral Palsy and poor motor control as well as therapists who have a basic knowledge of NDT and want to specify their handling skills for children with neuromuscular involvement both in the present and throughout their lifespan.

Baby Treatment via NDT – for Pediatric Therapists

Instructor: Kacy Hertz, PT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP

This seminar provides an introduction to assessment and treatment of babies using contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Typical and atypical development from a sensory motor perspective, assessment and treatment will be covered for the first year of life. The participant will demonstrate handling skills on a doll and during lab. A demonstration treatment will be presented on day two. This is a great seminar for the pediatric therapist who sees babies and wants to know how to apply handling techniques to little bodies. An 18-24 inch jointed doll for use during lab is recommended.

Handling Intensive for Children with Sensory-Motor Impairments – NDT-Based for Pediatric Therapists

Instructor: Kacy Hertz, PT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP

This seminar provides an introduction to assessment and treatment using contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Assessment, task analysis, treatment planning, and treatment skills will be covered. There are labs and two-days of practicum with children to allow hands on experience and practice. This is a great seminar for new therapists, therapists who are changing their emphasis to pediatrics, and therapists who want to improve their handling skills for improving their client’s function.

This seminar is especially helpful to the therapist working with young children who have limited skills and who require hands-on treatment to learn new tasks. Each day will have an emphasis: the trunk and ribcage, upper extremity, and lower extremity. On the last day a case study will assist the participant in “putting the pieces together.”

Clinical Gait: Assessment and Treatment

Instructor: Kacy Hertz, PT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: Pediatric PT

This seminar will cover specific assessment tools for the lower extremity, development of different types of gait problems, and treatment of the same problems. The gait cycle and common impairments seen in children with cerebral palsy will also be covered. The participant will develop a problem-solving approach for assessment and treatment of equinus gait, lateral and medial rotation gait, crouched gait, and lateral flexion gait. Adjuncts to treat biomechanics and use of orthotics will be discussed.

Moving into NDT for the Pediatric SLP: An Introduction to Neuro-Developmental Treatment

Instructor: Therese McDermott-Winter, MHS, CCC-SLP, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: SLP

NDT is a dynamic, hands-on, problem-solving approach used in the treatment of children with central nervous system (CNS) pathophysiology. Intervention involves direct handling to optimize function. This introductory NDT seminar has been specifically developed for speech-language pathologists with a goal of facilitating a greater comfort level with components of movement, handling, postural stability/balance, and alignment as they impact our treatment of children with neuromuscular based speech production, communication and feeding/swallowing limitations. In addition to information regarding observation/assessment of posture, stability and alignment, the seminar focus will be on application and modification of treatment strategies for the individual client. Demonstration and practical labs will allow participants the opportunity to explore movement, handling and concepts presented in this seminar.

Enhancing Your Clinical Practice Skills: An Introduction to NDT for the Speech-Language Pathologist

Instructor: Carmen Pagan, MA, CCC-SLP, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: SLP, SLPA

This seminar is designed for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with children diagnosed with neuromuscular disorders. NDT is a dynamic, hands-on, problem-solving approach used in the treatment of children with central nervous system (CNS) pathophysiology. This introductory seminar is intended as a preparatory seminar for SLPs interested in taking other NDTA™ sponsored courses and/or the NDTA™ Certificate Course in the Contemporary Practice of NDT for the Management of Children with Cerebral Palsy and Other Neuromuscular Disorders. Furthermore, participants in this seminar will learn options to enhance functional outcomes and will heighten clinical reasoning skills through observation and analysis of posture and movement, as they are tied to patient’s functional outcomes. Practical application of material will be presented through lecture, video clips, movement practicum, group problem-solving, and discussions.

Pediatric Gait Analysis and Treatment

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is designed for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists treating pediatric clients. Typical and atypical lower extremity biomechanics, transitions, and gait will be reviewed as they relate to one another and the development of functional transitions and gait. The theoretical basis for contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model will be presented as it relates to treatment of the pediatric client. Observation of gait will reinforce typical development. Movement labs will be used to facilitate one another through movement transitions and gait for pratical applications of theory for participants. Obser- vations of assessment and treatment via video and live demonstrations will show treatment and handling techniques. Small group problem-solving will reinforce strategies and concepts aquired throughout the seminar.

Introduction to Neuro-Developmental Treatment for the Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This introductory level seminar is designed to provide information related to the practical intervention strategies for a child with ASD utilizing contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Participants will be assisted to expand their depth of handling techniques while problem-solving to improve function and participation for their pediatric client. The emphasis will be placed on practical applications that participants will be able to bring to their practice and address current trends in pediatrics.

Upright Postural Control for the Child with Hypotonia: Utilizing the NDT Practice Model

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is designed to enhance the participant’s handing skills to improve upright postural control for functional skills utilizing contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Evidence from contemporary science and greater understanding of current theories in motor behavior will be drawn upon to enhance clinical reasoning skills. This introductory level seminar will include assessment according to the International Clas- sification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, task analysis, and a framework to organize and provide effective treatment strategies, including discussions of adjuncts. Participants will practice handling skills through movement practicum with a paired course participant. A blended learning approach will be used with lectures, client videos for problem-solving, patient demonstrations, movement practicum, as well as small group discussions.

Facilitating Gait: An Understanding of Lower Extremity Biomechanics from an NDT Perspective

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is designed to provide an overview of lower extremity biomechanics, followed by practical application of facilitation techniques to assist patients in achieving functional transfers and ambulation. The format will be initial lecture, integrated with discussion and lab practice. The emphasis will be placed on practical applications that participants will be able to bring to their practice.

Introduction to the NDT Practice Model

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is designed to provide therapy clinicians with more tools to enhance functional outcomes in children with neurological diagnoses. Evidence from contemporary science and greater understanding of current theories in motor behavior are drawn upon to enhance clinical reasoning skills based on contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. This introductory level seminar will include assessment according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, task analysis, and a framework to organize and provide effective treatment strategies. Participants will practice handling skills through movement practicum with a paired course participant. A blended learning approach will be used with lectures, client videos for problem-solving, patient demonstrations, movement practicum, as well as small group discussions.

Let’s Play Ball!: Using Movable Surfaces with the NDT Practice Model

Instructor: Leslie Paparesnos, PT, Physiotherapist, MS, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

Movable surfaces are often used in clinical practice. This seminar is designed to enhance your current skills with movable surfaces utilizing contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model. Evidence from contemporary science and greater understanding of current theories in motor behavior will be drawn upon to enhance clinical reasoning skills. This seminar will include assessment according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, task analysis, and a framework to organize and provide effective treatment strategies utilizing movable surfaces. Participants will practice handling skills through movement practicum with a paired course participant. A blended learning approach will be used with lectures, client videos for problem-solving, patient demonstrations, movement practicum, as well as small group discussions.

Introduction to Neuro-Developmental Treatment for Pediatrics

Instructor: Jane Styer-Acevedo, PT, DPT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is designed for physical and occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists and assistants who currently work or desire to work with children and youth diagnosed with neuromuscular challenges such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, Congenital Syndromes, developmental delay, etc. Participants will learn to critically assess clients, analyze single and multi-system impairments, and identify intervention strategies and treatment sequences to achieve a child/client-specific functional goal. Seminar content is based on contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework in gathering information, writing goals, and planning a sequenced treatment session to promote participation in the child and family’s life. Observation of the instructor’s assessment and treatment demonstrations will provide an opportunity to integrate the information presented in class so the participant can readily apply the concepts to their current caseload.

Neuro-Developmental Treatment Approach to Pediatric Gait

Instructor: Jane Styer-Acevedo, PT, DPT, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, PTA, OTA

This seminar is designed for physical and occupational therapists and assistants treating children with neuro- logical deficits who are acquiring gait and require more efficient functional skills in vertical or during mobility such as walking. Seminar content is based on contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model and the Inter- national Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework as it relates to gait and function in vertical. Through the use of slides, videos, and demonstrations, participants will increase their understanding of the acquisition of typical gait and vertical function with toddlers and children. Participants will refine assessment skills and learn treatment strategies through video and live demonstrations. Movement labs will provide opportunities to facilitate movement transitions and practice NDT handling techniques to promote more efficient function in vertical and walking.

On the Move: Neuro-Developmental Treatment Approach for Infants & Toddlers

Instructor: Jane Styer-Acevedo, PT, DPT, C/NDT and Kate Bain, OT, HScD, C/NDT

Level: Introductory

Target Audience: PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, SLPA

This seminar is for physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and assistants treating pediatric clients (birth to 3 years) who demonstrate neurological or suspected neurological deficits. Participants will learn to critically observe typical and atypical development and their interrelationship and the development of infant/toddler functional movement patterns/behaviors. Therapists will utilize contemporary NDT and the NDT Practice Model and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework in gathering information, writing goals, and planning treatment focused on client participation and engagement in family life. Through videos and live demonstrations of assessment and treatment, therapists will gain a better understanding of infant movement patterns as well as treatment and handling strategies to effect more efficient movement patterns. Therapists will practice NDT handling techniques on an infant-sized doll and facilitate movement transitions during lab experiences.