TBC

Category: Child Therapy

  • What is early intervention? Why it is important? 

    What is early intervention? Why it is important? 

    What is early intervention? Why it is important?

    What is early intervention?

    Early intervention is used to refer to a system of support to help babies and toddlers, usually between birth to 3 years. This includes speech therapy, psychomotor therapy, or any other help support the child needs. If the child has any form of developmental delay (speech, language, cognitive, or motor), early intervention can help building new skills targeting their weaknesses. 

    Why early intervention is important?

    The earlier the intervention is, the more beneficial it will be for the child. In the first five years of life, experiences and relationships stimulate children’s development, creating every second million of connections in their brains. These connections are faster in the first five years than at any other time in their lives; the brain is “flexible”. Sensory pathways like those for basic vision and hearing are the first to develop, followed by early language skills and higher cognitive functions. 

    How the brain’s flexibility enhances the academic skills?

    Studies have shown that infants with higher cognitive flexibility demonstrate better academic outcomes in school with respect to their reading abilities, math skills and science-related task performance. Furthermore, this skill may transfer to emotional flexibility in terms of updating one’s thought processes to handle a difficult situation during the later stages of development.  

    What can affect the brain development?

    The brain can be affected by several factors:  

    • During pregnancy: drinking, smoking, high stress, folate deficiency, maternal infections  
    • At birth: Oxygen deprivation (Asphyxia), physical trauma (excessive force from the use of forceps or vacuum extractors), premature birth before the 37th week of pregnancy 
    • Post birth:  head injuries, bacterial infections (meningitis or encephalitis), Immune disorder, lack of stimulation. 

    What are the therapies that could be done in early intervention?

    Speech and language therapy 

    • If your child is having issues in interacting, communicating or understanding verbally, he may have a speech or language delay. Speech and language therapy can help determine the cause and improve communication and interacting skills.  
    • Through pretending play, respecting turn taking, listening to stories and playing, children will become able to imitate the sounds and when their vocabulary increase, they will be able to extend their sentences and speak easily. In addition, the speech therapist can help your child in having a better articulation of sounds by doing exercises that strengthen his oro-facial muscles. 

    Occupational/Psychomotor therapy 

    • If your child is showing motor or independency delay in his milestones such in walking, running, eating, dressing up, cutting or writing, he may have a psychomotor delay. In this case, the therapists aim to mainly advance the child’s motor skills through visual stimulations, sensory integration, muscle regulation and coordination exercises. In addition, if your child has attention and concentration problems, a psychomotor therapy is recommended.  

    Physical/physio therapy

    • If your child hasn’t yet achieved key physical milestones, this may be an indication of having physical limitations. They could also require physical therapy if they have dealt with injuries or illnesses. Physical therapy can help improve flexibility, strength, balance, and mobility. Physical therapists focus on regaining or constructing physical strength and movements through manual therapy like massages, stretches, or lifestyle modifications.

    Behavioural therapy (Applied Behavioural Therapy/ABA) 

    1.  
    • If your child has behavioural issues, ABA therapy involves many techniques for understanding and changing behaviour of individuals, through different techniques such as providing positive reinforcement, and understanding why a behavior may be happening and what are the consequences that could occurs. Nevertheless, a parental guidance done by a psychologist is a much recommended.

    Babies are born ready to learn, and their brains develop with repetitive, consistent and familiar routines and practices. Stimulating and caring environments with a variety of different activities give children plenty of ways to play, develop and learn. In addition, children need many opportunities to practice what they are learning.  

    In case your child has any developmental delay, don’t hesitate to ask his pediatrician and to start the therapy as soon as possible. Always remember “the earlier, the better”. 

     

    At TBC, our Lebanese Therapists provide therapy sessions in Arabic, French, and English to help clients overcome mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as occupational therapy, psychomotor and speech therapy in Dubai.

    Our speech therapist is Hanen certified.

  • Unlocking the Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Dubai: A Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health

    Unlocking the Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Dubai: A Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health

    Unlocking the Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Dubai: The Connection Between Mental Health and Well-being

    Occupational therapy has emerged as a transformative resource for individuals seeking support for their mental health in Dubai. By employing a holistic and patient-centered approach, occupational therapists play a vital role in addressing mental health concerns and promoting overall well-being. Let’s explore the various facets of occupational therapy in Dubai and how it positively impacts individuals’ lives.

    An occupational therapist tailors their treatment to the unique preferences and goals of each individual, ensuring a personalized approach that fosters a sense of ownership and active participation in the recovery process.

    One of the primary objectives of occupational therapy is to enhance individuals’ awareness and understanding of their psychological disorders. Through comprehensive assessments and insightful discussions, occupational therapists provide valuable insights and information, empowering individuals to actively engage in their own mental health journey.

    Occupational therapists also equip individuals with the necessary tools and skills to effectively manage their mental health conditions. By working closely with their patients, they help develop coping mechanisms and practical strategies that promote mental well-being, resilience, and overall functioning.

    The scope of occupational therapy in Dubai extends to various domains that contribute to individuals’ mental health and overall quality of life.

    1. Enhancing Leisure and Avocational Interests: Occupational therapists assist individuals in discovering and cultivating leisure activities that promote relaxation, joy, and a sense of fulfillment. Engaging in meaningful hobbies and interests can significantly impact mental health by reducing stress levels, improving mood, and enhancing overall life satisfaction.
    2. Empowering Independent Living Skills: Occupational therapists support individuals with mental health conditions to live independently by providing guidance and interventions. They help develop skills related to managing daily tasks, utilizing community resources, organizing time and medication, and ensuring safety both at home and in the community. This fosters independence and nurtures a sense of autonomy.
    3. Building Proficiency in Activities of Daily Living: Occupational therapists offer guidance and training in activities of daily living (ADLs) such as grooming, dressing, eating, and personal hygiene. By improving individuals’ proficiency in ADLs, occupational therapists enhance their self-esteem, boost their confidence, and contribute to overall well-being.
    4. Collaboration with Employers: Occupational therapists actively collaborate with employers to identify appropriate accommodations for individuals with mental health conditions. This ensures inclusive and supportive work environments, allowing individuals to effectively navigate their work responsibilities, experience job satisfaction, and thrive professionally.
    5. Comprehensive Functional Evaluations and Job Placement Support: Occupational therapists conduct assessments to evaluate individuals’ abilities, strengths, and limitations. Based on these evaluations, they provide ongoing monitoring and support for successful job placement. Tailored interventions address specific challenges, enhancing individuals’ chances of finding fulfilling employment and maintaining long-term professional success.
    6. Consultation and Guidance in Employment Settings: Occupational therapists provide consultation and guidance in various employment settings. They collaborate with employers, supervisors, and colleagues to foster work environments that accommodate the needs of individuals with mental health conditions. This support helps individuals overcome barriers, maximize productivity, and contribute positively to the workplace.
    7. Evaluation and Treatment of Sensory Processing Deficits: Occupational therapists possess expertise in identifying and addressing sensory processing deficits. Through specialized techniques and interventions, they promote sensory integration and improve overall functioning. Addressing sensory processing deficits leads to improved emotional well-being, increased self-regulation, and enhanced quality of life.

    Dubai has witnessed remarkable growth in the field of occupational therapy, making it an accessible and valuable resource for individuals seeking mental health support. The city’s occupational therapists are dedicated professionals committed to providing high-quality care and fostering positive outcomes for their patients.

    Occupational therapy plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health conditions. By tailoring treatment plans to individual preferences and goals, occupational therapists empower individuals to actively engage in their own mental health journey. Through a wide

    range of interventions, such as enhancing leisure activities, developing independent living skills, providing employment support, and addressing sensory processing deficits, occupational therapy in Dubai promotes well-being, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

    As Dubai continues to prioritize mental health and well-being, occupational therapy remains an essential component of the city’s healthcare landscape. Recognizing the connection between mental health and occupational therapy opens doors to a wealth of resources and support for individuals. With the guidance of skilled occupational therapists, individuals in Dubai can unlock their full potential, overcome obstacles, and lead fulfilling lives with improved mental health.

    Whether it’s enhancing self-care skills, fostering independence, or creating inclusive work environments, occupational therapy in Dubai empowers individuals to manage their mental health conditions and thrive in various aspects of life. By addressing the unique needs and goals of each individual, occupational therapists create a safe and supportive space for growth and healing.

    If you or someone you know is in Dubai and seeking professional assistance from occupational therapists, consider contacting the Talking Brains Center (TBC). At TBC, you can find a team of highly skilled and compassionate occupational therapists, including Lebanese practitioners, who are ready to help. Sessions at TBC are conducted in English, Arabic, and French, ensuring effective communication and understanding.

    The Lebanese therapists in Dubai at TBC are dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive care, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each individual. Whether you require support in managing mental health conditions, developing independent living skills, or addressing sensory processing deficits, the occupational therapists at TBC are equipped with the expertise and experience to guide you through your journey to better mental health.

    By reaching out to the Talking Brains Center, you gain access to a supportive and inclusive environment where your well-being and progress are prioritized. The center’s commitment to offering sessions in multiple languages reflects their dedication to ensuring effective communication and fostering a comfortable therapeutic experience for everyone.

    Don’t hesitate to connect with the Talking Brains Center in Dubai, where their team of Lebanese occupational therapists is ready to provide the assistance you need. Together, you can work towards enhancing your mental health, developing essential skills, and achieving a better quality of life.

  • Occupational Therapy for Enhancing Skills in Children with Epilepsy

    Occupational Therapy for Enhancing Skills in Children with Epilepsy

    Occupational Therapy for Enhancing Skills in Children with Epilepsy

    Occupational therapy, specifically tailored to address the needs of children with epilepsy, plays a vital role in supporting their development. These children often face a range of symptoms associated with epilepsy, varying in frequency and intensity. Due to these challenges, many of them encounter difficulties in school and struggle with social skills, significantly impacting their self-esteem. However, occupational therapy interventions can provide significant benefits.

    Which learning areas are affected in children with epilepsy?

    Many children with epilepsy, despite having normal intelligence, experience deficits in specific areas crucial for thinking and learning. These areas commonly include attention, concentration, memory, and organizational skills. To enhance these critical abilities, occupational therapy interventions, such as psychomotor therapy, are highly recommended.

    Occupational therapy approaches to skill enhancement

    Occupational therapy, with its focus on facilitating engagement in meaningful activities, is well-suited to improving the skills mentioned above in children with epilepsy. Through play and exploration of novel experiences, occupational therapy helps children develop their organizational skills, attention span, and executive functions, including working memory, inhibition, and flexibility. By incorporating occupational therapy techniques, children can make significant strides in these areas.

    The impact of spatial development on learning

    Spatial development in children directly influences their reading, writing, and mathematical abilities. Particularly in early childhood, occupational therapists work on enhancing “sensory-motor” skills by encouraging direct experiences that allow the child to explore physical spaces. This may involve activities such as crawling, walking, and sitting on the ground. Additionally, occupational therapists offer stimulating games that foster the understanding of concepts like right-left, front-behind, before-after, up-down, inside-outside, near-far, and beginning-end.

    Stimulating working memory through occupational therapy

    Occupational therapists employ various activities to stimulate working memory, which aids children in temporarily retaining information and processing additional data to solve problems. For instance, working on mathematical concepts can be beneficial for children with epilepsy.

    Promoting inhibitory control and attention skills

    Occupational therapy interventions also focus on promoting inhibitory control, helping children regulate their emotions and behaviours effectively. This aspect of therapy is crucial for optimal self-control and requires attention skills, including selective and sustained attention, to minimize distractions and maintain focus on the intended task.

    Enhancing cognitive flexibility through occupational therapy

    Cognitive flexibility, an important skill for adapting to new environments, is another area targeted by occupational therapy. By incorporating specific interventions, occupational therapists help improve the child’s ability to adjust and thrive in different situations.

    Conclusion: Collaborative care for children with epilepsy

    Epilepsy in children often correlates with difficulties in social competence, behavioural adjustment, emotional well-being, and academic performance. Therefore, it is crucial to provide comprehensive support, including psychological intervention and speech and language follow-up. Occupational therapy, in collaboration with educators, families, and healthcare professionals, plays a vital role in developing and continuously improving academic, behavioural, and emotional success plans for children with epilepsy.

    If you believe your child with epilepsy might need occupational therapy in Dubai, reach out to TBC. Our Lebanese therapists offer occupational therapy for children in English, French and Arabic.

  • 15 Tips To Improve Attention Span In Children

    15 Tips To Improve Attention Span In Children

    15 Tips To Improve Attention Span In Children

    1. Organise the child’s room, table or desk to minimize environmental distractions. 
    2. Practice breaks – Make sure the information is not given in one stretch. 
    3. Use physical, verbal, visual cues to ensure the focus of the child. 
    4. Give out the information in an interesting, fun and creative manner. 
    5. Make sure the child reserves adequate amount of sleep every night. 
    6. Encourage activities and games that can engage the child in quite longer periods of time. 
    7. Set a timer or keep a watch or clock nearby and show the child in how much time he/she has to complete a given task. Try to make it easy and fun. 
    8. Moderate the level of difficulty of the tasks from ‘very easy to very difficult’, as the child progresses in being attentive on tasks for a given period of time (set reasonable time goals/targets). 
    9. Try to spend outdoor time in natural environment such as, parks. 
    10. Make sure that child is provided with multiple levels of guidance, like with verbal cues, physical prompting etc. 
    11. Help to keep the child’s level of motivation high. 
    12. Reduce the work load of the child that he or she has to complete. 
    13. Allow the child to disengage from the task if not motivated. 
    14. Persistently and consistently discipline the child with the same instructions day by day. 
    15. Engage in attention–boosting games such as ‘Simon Says’ or ‘Champion Distractor’. 
  • Distinguishing Between Physiotherapy and Psychomotor Therapy: Techniques, Goals, and Areas of Focus

    Distinguishing Between Physiotherapy and Psychomotor Therapy: Techniques, Goals, and Areas of Focus

    Distinguishing Between Physiotherapy and Psychomotor Therapy: Techniques, Goals, and Areas of Focus

    Physiotherapy and psychomotor therapy are two types of therapy that are usually used to help individuals recover from physical, mental or emotional conditions. While both therapies share some similarities, their focus, techniques, and goals are different. In this blog post, we will explore the difference between physiotherapy and psychomotor therapy.

    Physiotherapy

    Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on improving physical function, mobility, and strength through exercise, manual therapy, and other techniques. Physiotherapists work with individuals who have suffered from injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that have affected their ability to move and perform daily activities. The goal of physiotherapy is to restore physical function, prevent further injuries, and improve overall quality of life.

    Physiotherapists use a range of techniques and interventions, including:

    • Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation to improve mobility and reduce pain.
    • Exercise therapy: Prescribed exercises and stretches to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.
    • Electrotherapy: The use of electrical currents to stimulate muscles, reduce pain, and promote healing.
    • Education: Advice and education on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications to prevent further injury and maintain physical function.

    Psychomotor Therapy

    Psychomotor therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the relationship between the mind and the body. It is a holistic approach that aims to improve the emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of an individual’s life by using movement and body awareness. Psychomotor therapists work with individuals who have mental health conditions, learning disabilities, or developmental delays.

    Psychomotor therapy techniques and interventions may include:

    • Movement and dance therapy: The use of movement, rhythm, and music to improve emotional expression and self-awareness.
    • Body-oriented psychotherapy: The use of touch, movement, and breathwork to address emotional and psychological issues.
    • Sensory integration therapy: The use of activities that stimulate the senses to improve sensory processing and regulation.
    • Relaxation techniques: The use of relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and visualization to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

    While physiotherapy and psychomotor therapy share some similarities, they differ in their focus, techniques, and goals. Physiotherapy is primarily concerned with restoring physical function and mobility, while psychomotor therapy aims to improve the emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of an individual’s life by using movement and body awareness. Both therapies can be highly effective in improving an individual’s overall health and well-being, and a healthcare professional can help determine which therapy is best suited for a particular individual’s need.

     

    TBC in Dubai offers psychomotor therapy, reach out to us for more details. 

  • What to do if the child has a speech delay or pronunciation problems?

    What to do if the child has a speech delay or pronunciation problems?

    What to do if the child has a speech delay or pronunciation problems?

    As a trusted speech therapy center in Dubai, UAE, we understand that speech delays and pronunciation problems can be a source of stress for parents and caregivers. These issues can have a significant impact on a child’s language development, academic performance, and social interactions.

    In this video, we will be discussing common speech delays and pronunciation problems that children may experience, as well as practical steps that parents and caregivers can take to support their child’s communication skills.

    With her expertise and years of experience, Reine Bou Issa Ghafary, a licensed speech-language pathologist, will share tips and insights on how parents and caregivers can support their child’s speech development and when to seek professional help.

    At TBC, we are committed to providing the highest quality speech therapy services to children of all ages in Dubai, UAE. Our team of experienced professionals has a wealth of knowledge in diagnosing and treating speech delays and pronunciation problems, and we are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential.

    So whether you’re a parent or caregiver concerned about your child’s speech development, or simply interested in learning more about this topic, we invite you to join us and learn how you can support your child’s language skills and overall development.

    At Talking Brains Center (TBC), we understand the importance of early childhood development and offer a range of therapy services to support your child’s growth. Our team of Lebanese therapists in Dubai, UAE, includes occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other specialists who can help your child build the skills they need to succeed. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your child’s development.