Movement is an important part of a child’s development. Children use movement and posture to explore their environment, play, learn and become independent.

Some children experience difficulties with balance, posture, coordination, muscle control or motor planning. These challenges can affect everyday activities and participation.

Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is an individualized therapeutic approach used to address movement and functional difficulties.

What Is Neurodevelopmental Treatment?

NDT focuses on understanding how a child moves and how movement difficulties affect functional activities.

The therapist evaluates posture, movement patterns, balance, coordination and functional performance before developing an individualized treatment plan.

Who May Benefit From NDT?

Neurodevelopmental Treatment may be considered for children with:

• Developmental motor delays
• Cerebral palsy
• Neuromotor difficulties
• Poor postural control
• Balance problems
• Coordination difficulties
• Motor planning challenges
• Difficulty performing functional activities

Benefits of NDT

Depending on the child’s needs, NDT therapy may help support:

• Better postural control
• Improved balance
• Improved coordination
• Better movement quality
• Improved motor planning
• Increased functional independence
• Greater participation in everyday activities

What Happens During NDT Therapy?

NDT sessions are individualized. The therapist may use therapeutic handling, guided movement and functional activities to help the child practice more efficient movement patterns.

Activities can be incorporated into meaningful tasks such as sitting, standing, walking, reaching, playing and self-care.