Helping hand

08/01/2026

It’s easy to assume that fidgeting, clumsiness or difficulties with focus point to the same diagnosis each time, but behaviour doesn’t always tell the whole story.

Some children show patterns that resemble ADHD or sensory difficulties, yet the underlying reason may be linked to retained primitive reflexes. A certified INPP practitioner uses structured assessments rather than guesswork or online checklists to understand what is really happening in the nervous system.

Even reflexes that appear to have disappeared can remain subtly active, influencing balance, coordination and self-regulation. A professional assessment helps ensure the right areas are identified and supported, giving the child the best starting point for progress.
(Ref: INPP method)

07/01/2026

Autistic children often respond more easily to rhythm than to spoken instruction. That’s because rhythm helps regulate the brain’s sense of timing—something often affected in autism.
RGM uses predictable, structured rhythmic patterns to support communication, movement and memory.

✨ Accessible for all ages ✨ Easy to integrate with existing therapies ✨ Backed by science

05/01/2026

Some children seem constantly “on alert”. They may struggle to calm after upset, react strongly to stress, or find everyday situations overwhelming. When this happens, the nervous system is often working much harder than it should.

As Dr Tony Ebel explains, the vagus nerve plays a key role in helping the body feel safe, settled and regulated. If the vagus nerve isn’t functioning as well as it could, children may find it harder to switch out of stress mode, even when nothing threatening is happening.

Sometimes early experiences such as birth stress or physical tension in the body can interfere with how this system develops.

When the vagus nerve isn’t fully supported, it can show up as:
• big emotional reactions
• difficulty settling after upset
• sensory overload
• restlessness
• digestive discomfort

Understanding the nervous system can help shift the way we see behaviour. Instead of assuming a child is being difficult, we can begin to explore what their body may be asking for and how to support it gently and calmly.
(Ref: Dr Tony Ebel)

04/01/2026

In addition to time of school entry, the percentage of children under-achieving or identified as having special educational needs (SEN) is on the increase. Teachers often feel impotent in knowing how to identify factors underlying this increase or having the resources to help them.

One factor that can interfere with development of a range of skills needed to support success in the classroom is immature motor development.

This one-day course provides teachers with practical tools with which to identify signs of immaturity in motor skills and to implement a daily class activity programme to help improve the physical basis for learning.

This event is hosted by Alison Harvey of https://neuro-connect.co.uk/

To book go to: https://bookwhen.com/inpp-uk/e/ev-sioaa-20260314100000

04/01/2026

One-Year INPP Training 2026/2027 - Edinburgh – Apply Now >>> https://www.inpp.uk/inpp-course-application-form

Thinking of training in the INPP Method?

The one-year postgraduate Practitioner Training Course in Neuromotor Immaturity is now open for applications – and for 2026–2027, the in-person elements will take place in Edinburgh!

💻 Module 1: Online – October 2026 (online - 4 half days)
🏨 Modules 2 & 3: In person in Edinburgh – February & April 2027
📝 Exams: June 2027 (online option available)

Taught by highly experienced INPP trainers, this course provides everything you need to become a licensed INPP practitioner, including diagnostic tools, the INPP method and movement programme, and full access to course materials.

📣 If you're based near Edinburgh, this is an amazing opportunity – and spaces are limited!

04/01/2026

Hearing and how it shapes your brain.

04/01/2026

A young boy with autism, no spoken language, and extreme sensitivity to sound began music therapy.

At first, he covered his ears when his therapist spoke. Over time, through shared rhythm, play, and music, he began to look, copy gestures, and vocalise — eventually naming his own facial features with delight.

This story from the British Association for Music Therapy shows the transformative power of rhythm, repetition and connection.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) works in a similar way — structured, multi-sensory and joyful, using rhythm to stimulate language, movement and engagement.
Could this approach support someone you know?

03/01/2026

Subtle changes in how someone listens can sometimes be early indicators of cognitive change.
You might notice:

>Trouble following conversation, especially in groups
> Difficulty remembering spoken information
>Reduced enjoyment of music or sound sensitivity

These could be linked to changes in central auditory processing — how the brain interprets what the ears hear.

The study by Ma et al. (2025) found that changes in auditory processing may precede noticeable cognitive decline, making it an important area for early awareness and support.
If you or a loved one are noticing changes like these, a conversation about auditory health could be a good starting point.

02/01/2026

For many stroke patients, assistive devices like wheelchairs or walkers are essential at first. But research from Spain (2021) showed that after combining conventional physiotherapy with music-based RAS (music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation), over 80% of patients went home walking independently without devices.

The structured use of rhythm created gains in confidence, coordination and mobility.
It’s a reminder that small rhythmic steps can lead to big changes in independence.

If you'd like to find out more about the Ronnie Gardiner Method please head over to our website - https://www.ronniegardinermethod.co.uk

31/12/2025

Struggling with sports isn't always about lack of interest or coordination. Difficulty with skills like kicking can indicate that fundamental physical abilities aren't fully developed.

These include:
- Static balance (staying steady on one foot)
- Bilateral coordination (using both sides of the body together)
- Cross-body movements (coordinating opposite arm and leg)
- Core stability (maintaining a strong centre while moving limbs)

These foundational skills are crucial for more advanced physical activities, from sports to everyday tasks. Addressing these early can boost overall physical competence so if oyu notice your child might be finding they are experiencing some of these issues then please just get in touch for a chat.

29/12/2025

We love getting feedback from our RGM courses - if you're interested please just check out our website to find out when the courses are running!

"This experience was both enriching and truly enjoyable. My heartfelt thanks. I really appreciated your professionalism and energy!
I’m already excited for Level 2 ☺️"

28/12/2025

How do you begin to try to explain? They mean well. Honestly, they really do. They want to wish you a happy Christmas and they want your child to enjoy the wonder and magic of it all…just like in the movies and on the billboards, and to some degree…like the Christmas they will actually have with...

28/12/2025

Reflex integration isn’t one-size-fits-all and it's for people of all ages, not just children. This adult client describes the difference a tailored, thoughtful programme can make.

“It was clear this wasn’t just a generic programme. Pauline notices subtleties in how my body responds and constantly tweaks my exercises. It feels like a living, personalised programme, not a static tick-list.”

If you'd like to find out more then please just get in touch.

27/12/2025

It's remarkable when we receive feedback from our clients when they share their experiences. This client's daughter received INPP and also Tomatis treatments.

Words cannot express how overjoyed I am at the positive changes in my daughter since we started working with Pauline. I only wish we had met her sooner.

We have since had a diagnosis of Autism but were told that not a lot would change regarding support as schools are equipped to support children with different needs!!

As a parent, foster parent and social care practitioner with children with ASD I think this programme should be an integral part of childcare services, accessible to all who require it.

26/12/2025

What does rhythm have to do with autism?

Autistic children often experience challenges with multi-sensory processing – things like timing, coordination, or understanding social cues.

🎶 Rhythm helps! Research shows that music with a regular beat (like a 4/4 time signature) and moderate tempo can support communication and social development in children with autism.

👣 This is why rhythm-based approaches – such as the Ronnie Gardiner Method – are gaining interest.

🧡 RGM offers a multi-sensory way to engage the brain, using rhythm, movement, colour and language to help improve focus, timing and communication.

➡️ If you're a parent, carer or therapist looking for new ways to support autistic children, it might be worth learning more about this method.

📖 Source: “Dance, rhythm, and autism spectrum disorder: An explorative study” – Morris et al. (2020)

25/12/2025

Did you know? Rhythm and music with a steady 4/4 beat can support social and communication skills in autistic children.

A recent study explored how rhythm-based activities in Dance and Movement Therapy can help children on the autism spectrum. The research found that music with a 4/4 time signature and a moderate tempo was particularly beneficial.

Why? Because rhythm helps the brain organise movement, attention and social responses – key areas of difficulty in autism.

💡 This aligns closely with the principles behind the Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) – a structured, rhythm-based programme that uses movement, music, colour and language to engage multiple senses at once.

👉 Could a rhythm-based intervention like RGM support your child’s communication or focus? Or might this be something to explore in your work with autistic children?

📚 Reference: Morris et al. (2020) “Dance, rhythm, and autism spectrum disorder: An explorative study”

24/12/2025

Sometimes life’s most meaningful work begins with a question rather than a plan.
Back in 1980, at a difficult point in his life, musician Ronnie Gardiner found himself wondering whether rhythm could do more than entertain. Could structured rhythm, movement and focus help the brain recover, adapt and reconnect?

That question stayed with him.
Over the next six years he studied how the brain processes rhythm, colour, movement and sequencing. Step by step, the foundation for what we now know as the Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) began to take shape.

Today, that original idea has grown into a structured approach grounded in rhythm-based movement and neuroplasticity. RGM now supports people in many settings, including stroke rehabilitation, Parkinson’s, autism support and healthy ageing.

What began as one musician’s curiosity has become a method helping people regain confidence, movement and connection worldwide.

22/12/2025

Can you tell the difference between “bat” and “pat”?

That’s auditory discrimination at work.

This skill helps us distinguish between similar sounds, which is vital for clear speech, reading, and understanding language. For those with difficulties here, similar-sounding words may blur together, making conversation or classroom learning more difficult.

The Tomatis®️ Method supports sharper sound processing by retraining the way the brain filters and differentiates what we hear — a powerful tool for clearer communication.

20/12/2025

Progress doesn’t always happen overnight, but steady change during the course of the INPP programme can completely reshape a child’s confidence. This parent’s words say it far better than we can.

“Last year, she was deemed unable to manage any assessment. Yesterday she completed a maths assessment and said the first half was easy and the second half was difficult, but she wasn’t phased by that.”

19/12/2025

Many of you have been asking when the next opportunity for Level 2 training will be, and we now have confirmed dates. RGM Level 2 will take place in Manchester on 30 and 31 May 2026, running 9 to 5 each day. https://www.ronniegardinermethod.co.uk/training

Level 2 builds on the foundation of Level 1 by introducing six new movements, memory exercises, theory and practice sessions, the Magic Five, visualisation work, rhythm-based walking exercises and a full team chore score.

It also includes a focus on using RGM with children and offers space for an individual presentation with supportive critique.
Completing both Level 1 and Level 2 is required to become a certified RGM facilitator. For practitioners who completed Level 1 previously, this is a chance to deepen your understanding of rhythm, coordination and neurodevelopment, and to gain access to the full set of colour-coded movements.

The course is £350. Although Level 2 is only open to past Level 1 participants, anyone interested in joining the next Level 1 intake next year is welcome to get in touch.

18/12/2025

Rhythm isn’t just for music lovers. For children with autism, rhythm can support communication, improve social development, and help with body regulation. The research shows that music with a steady beat (especially 4/4 time, moderate tempo, and lyrics) was the most commonly and effectively used in therapeutic settings.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) is built on similar foundations – it combines rhythm with physical movement, visual cues and language to stimulate multiple areas of the brain at once.

Could this multi-sensory approach offer new possibilities for your clients or your family?
Whether you’re a parent or a professional working in autism, RGM might be something worth exploring so please just get in touch with Pauline to find out more.

16/12/2025

Some children struggle with sleep, movement, regulation or sensory overwhelm, and it’s not always clear why. Sometimes the challenge sits deeper than behaviour.

Dr Tony Ebel describes subluxation as small areas of tension or misalignment in the spine that may affect how well the nervous system communicates with the rest of the body. It isn’t the same as injury, and it’s often subtle, but it can influence how children feel and function day to day.

This can be especially important in early development, because areas such as the upper neck are closely linked to the vagus nerve, which helps with calming, digestion, emotional regulation and body awareness.

For some children, subluxation may be connected to:
• unsettled sleep
• feeding or digestion difficulties
• frequent meltdowns or big reactions
• delays in motor skills
• sensory sensitivity

Exploring what’s happening underneath the behaviour can help parents consider gentle, body-based approaches that support the nervous system rather than only managing symptoms.
(Ref: Dr Tony Ebel)

15/12/2025

Auditory processing isn’t just about hearing, it’s about how the brain makes sense of sound.

As we age, even mild hearing changes can make it harder for the brain to decode and organise sound information. This reduced stimulation can contribute to mental fatigue, slower memory recall, and even early signs of cognitive decline.

Researchers (Ma et al., 2025) emphasise the importance of identifying and supporting auditory processing early on.

By working directly with the ear–brain connection, approaches like the Tomatis® Method can help maintain and strengthen these vital neural pathways which can keep the brain active and responsive throughout life.

13/12/2025

Music affects our mood and rhythm can help regulate it.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method uses tempo and repetition to calm or energise participants, depending on the need. Whether it’s a slow, grounding rhythm or something upbeat and energising, rhythm provides structure for emotional expression and control.

Practising rhythm in this way helps people learn how to tune in, release tension and feel more balanced.

12/12/2025

Music, Movement & Autism:

Music therapy activates parts of the brain involved in speech, movement and emotion—even in autistic children who struggle to speak.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) harnesses the power of rhythm, structured movement and multi-sensory input to support communication, coordination, and confidence.

It’s fun. It’s research-backed. And it works.

📖 Ref: Applewhite et al., 2022

11/12/2025

Supervision is a core part of maintaining high-quality INPP practice. It ensures that licentiates continue to work with accuracy, confidence and fidelity to the method. This regular contact with senior trainers helps practitioners review cases, deepen their understanding and stay aligned with current INPP standards.

For families, this ongoing training is one of the key reasons to choose an INPP Licentiate. It offers the reassurance that their practitioner is working within a recognised framework and meeting clear professional requirements.

Supervision is also the route back in for former licentiates who wish to reactivate their status. Upcoming supervision dates can be found on the website calendar.>>>

https://bookwhen.com/inpp-uk =ev-s9im-20250501000000

A well-supported practitioner is better placed to support the children and adults they work with.

10/12/2025

Some changes deserve to be celebrated. This P7 pupil had been struggling to attend school and cope with the day-to-day pressure. Since starting the INPP programme, everything looks different for her and her family.

“From missing school one or more days every week last year… she has consistently gone to school every day this term with her full timetable. If you ask her how school is now, she’s likely to say it’s ‘pretty good’.”

09/12/2025

Always lovely to hear feedback from our attendees on our Ronnie Gardiner Method courses - if you're interested then keep in touch as we're hoping to run a level 1 course in April 2026!

"That was the most fun I have ever had on a course. Roll on Level 2!"

08/12/2025

Teachers are often the first to spot when a child is struggling – but did you know that difficulties in the classroom can sometimes be linked to neuromotor development?

Our One-Day Teachers’ Course: Implementing Neuromotor Readiness for Learning will give you the tools to:
- Assess neuromotor readiness using INPP screening tests
- Understand the physical foundations of learning
- Implement movement-based strategies to support children

🗓 Saturday 21 February 2026
📍 Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland

👉 Contact Pauline directly for further information, or click here to book your place : https://bookwhen.com/inpp-uk/e/ev-sqmg-20260221100000

06/12/2025

Did you know your brain’s ability to process sound is just as important as your ears’ ability to hear it?

Recent research published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Diagnosis, Assessment & Disease Monitoring (Ma et al., 2025) found a strong link between auditory processing dysfunction and early cognitive decline.

When the brain struggles to interpret sound, it can lead to reduced stimulation which can affect memory, focus, and overall cognitive health.

The Tomatis® Method works by stimulating the ear–brain connection through sound-based training, helping to keep the brain active and engaged.

Maintaining healthy auditory processing could be an important piece of the puzzle in supporting cognitive function as we age.

04/12/2025

Stroke often leaves people struggling to walk again.

Research from Mutuam Hospital in Spain (2021) found that adding music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS), including the Ronnie Gardiner Method, to standard physiotherapy helped stroke patients improve their walking ability more than physiotherapy alone.

By following structured rhythms and simple movements, participants became more independent in moving from hospital to home.

This shows how rhythm can be a valuable addition to conventional rehab. If you'd like to find out more about the Ronnie Gardiner Method please head over to our website - https://www.ronniegardinermethod.co.uk

03/12/2025

Another country joins the RGM family. Welcome Switzerland!

Het afgelopen weekend heeft Zwitserland kennis gemaakt met RGM: op vrijdag gaven we een presentatie voor 200 mensen met Parkinson en hun naasten en op zaterdag en zondag gaven we de allereerst RGM-cursus aan 18 nieuwsgierige cursisten in Bern. (fotocredits: Bettina Rotzetter)

02/12/2025

What will the day look like?

The One-Day Teachers’ Course: Implementing Neuromotor Readiness for Learning includes:
🔹 Interactive sessions on neuromotor development
🔹 Practical training in assessment and intervention
🔹 Guidance on delivering the full INPP programme throughout the school year

A full, interactive day designed to give you skills you can use immediately.

🗓 Saturday 21 February 2026
📍 Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland

👉 Contact Pauline directly for further information, or click here to book: https://bookwhen.com/inpp-uk/e/ev-sqmg-20260221100000

30/11/2025

Parents often hear about the importance of milestones like crawling, rolling, or tummy time - but do you know why they matter so much?

Dr. Tony Ebel explains that these early movements help wire the brain for later emotional and cognitive skills. When milestones are skipped or rushed, the brain can miss vital chances to build strong connections.
Sometimes the result shows up years later as anxiety, reactivity, or difficulty focusing. Not because a child is “naughty” or “lazy” but because their brain is working under stress.

Movement-based support can give children another chance to strengthen these foundations, helping them feel calmer, more settled, and better able to learn.
(Ref: Dr. Tony Ebel, pxdocs.com, July 2025)

29/11/2025

It is so hard to explain all the ways in which Tomatis can help individuals and families. I like this explanation regarding speech and facial movements.

Your ears help coordinate all muscles in your body, including the 50+ muscles in your face and 100+ muscles needed for speech production. This is why auditory processing issues are highly correlated with difficulties with speech formation, speech clarity and facial expression. - If you can’t use y...

27/11/2025

When a child feels calmer, more settled and more capable, the whole family feels the difference. This is why the INPP programme matters.

“The change in her is quite extraordinary and so hugely welcome… I just don’t know where to begin to say thank you. The changes are entirely remarkable.”

If this resonates and you'd like to have a chat about your child please just get in touch!

26/11/2025

Many oportunities to influence change when the brain is constantly rewiring itself.

Your Brain Quietly Rewires Itself at 9, 32, 66, and 83

Scientists have identified five major eras of human brain wiring, each separated by a pivotal structural shift that reshapes how the brain organizes information.

Using thousands of MRI scans, the study shows that key transitions occur around ages 9, 32, 66, and 83, marking phases tied to development, peak efficiency, and later-life vulnerability.

Adult brain wiring remains surprisingly stable for more than thirty years before reorganizing again in older age.

These findings highlight why different life stages come with unique strengths and risks related to learning, cognition, and neurological health.