With the varied needs of children in mind, Cecilia Koester, M.Ed, developed Movement Based Learning to address the foundational pieces of learning so that children can learn how to learn. She teaches/consults in a functional, practical way so that any information is directly applicable and useable.

The movements and activities are based on natural, normal human development. They bring about rapid and often dramatic improvements in focus, comprehension, communication, organization and physical movement.

Movement-based learning has become known in the neurobiological field as any brain-based learning that stimulates the growth of neural pathways through movement of the body. This learning grew out of research revolving around kinesiology, the study of human movement that encompasses biological components of human movement including anatomical, physiological, neurological, biochemical and biomechanical. Theoretical knowledge of kinesiology is applied in many areas including physical therapy, occupational therapy and vision training. The approach of these applications can be therapeutic, preventive or high-performance.

The Movement Based Learning Course

Movement Based Learning is a way for us to begin to understand and apply the concept that movement of the body affects the integration of our brain function. When our brain is in an integrated state (i.e. able to access all parts of the brain), we return to our natural, normal curious state of learning. It is from this solid foundational space that we can reach our greatest potential. This course, developed by Koester, offers participants methods and techniques that they can immediately use with the children or adults with whom they work. Much attention is given to noticing/assessment skills, which also includes Bal-A-Vis-X and basic stages of human development.

The three-day Movement Based Learning course provides:

• An in-depth study of how to use Movement Based Learning
• An excellent application for autism, cerebral palsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, speech impairment, brain injuries and impairments caused by strokes
• Applications to typically functioning children and children with learning disabilities