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NeurOptimal®: A Powerful Tool to Support Children with Speech of Language Disorders.

Carlie Byrom

Today, I received a call from a speech pathologist who had done some research and discovered that neurofeedback sessions can complement speech therapy in supporting a child’s speech development goals.

It was truly rewarding to hear from another professional who recognizes how different modalities can collaborate to help children achieve their full potential.


So I thought I would right a blog about it:


When children face challenges with speech and language development, we all know that speech therapy can be a vital part of their growth. However, the process of therapy can sometimes feel slow or even frustrating, especially for children who have underlying conditions such as developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, or trauma. That's where NeurOptimal® neurofeedback therapy can play an unexpected but highly supportive role.


What is NeurOptimal®?

NeurOptimal® is a cutting-edge brain training system that can be used alongside traditional therapies to help children regulate their brainwave activity. ( It is important to note that NeurOptimal® neurofeedback is different to traditional linear forms of Neurofeedback – I have another blog on this – here is the link to it : https://www.lifebraintraining.com.au/post/wondering-what-the-difference-is-between-linear-and-non-linear-neurofeedback-and-why-it-is-so-import)


When applied in the context of speech pathology, NeurOptimal® offers promising benefits by enhancing cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall brain health. Let’s take a closer look at how NeurOptimal® works and how it can support children undergoing speech therapy.


What a NeurOptimal® System looks like
What a NeurOptimal® System looks like

How Does NeurOptimal® Work?

NeurOptimal® is a dynamic, non-invasive neurofeedback system that helps to train the brain to optimize its function. Unlike traditional neurofeedback systems, NeurOptimal® doesn't focus on targeting specific brainwave patterns to treat a single symptom or disorder. Instead, it encourages the brain to become more adaptable, efficient, and flexible. This process of “brain training” is achieved by using real-time feedback to help the brain recognize when it's operating at its best, allowing it to self-regulate and optimize its performance.

During a NeurOptimal® session, 2 sensors are placed on the scalp and 3 sensors on the ears, and the system monitors the brain’s electrical activity. It then provides immediate feedback (via interruptions in music or cartoons) that help the brain self regulate and operate more effectively.




Placing the NeurOptimal® Sensors
Placing the NeurOptimal® Sensors

How NeurOptimal® Supports Speech Pathology

While NeurOptimal® is not a direct treatment for speech or language disorders, its positive effects on brain function can have a profound impact on a child’s ability to engage in and benefit from speech therapy. Here are some key ways NeurOptimal® can support children in speech pathology:


1. Improved Attention and Focus:

Speech therapy requires a child’s full attention and focus. Children with ADHD, autism, or other attention-related difficulties often struggle to stay focused during therapy sessions, which can impede their progress. NeurOptimal® has been shown to help improve focus and attention by balancing brainwave activity. With a more regulated brain, children may find it easier to engage in speech exercises and retain the information taught in therapy.


2. Better Emotional Regulation:

Many children with speech challenges also experience difficulties with emotional regulation, leading to frustration or anxiety that can make communication even more challenging. NeurOptimal® helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, which can reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. With better emotional control, children are more likely to feel calm and confident during therapy sessions, creating an environment conducive to growth and learning.


3. Enhanced Cognitive Function:

Speech development is closely linked to overall cognitive function. A child’s ability to process information, retain new words, and practice articulation often depends on their cognitive processing speed and mental flexibility. NeurOptimal® enhances brain function by training the brain to be more adaptive and responsive to new information. As a result, children undergoing speech therapy may experience quicker cognitive processing, improved memory retention, and a stronger ability to integrate new skills into their everyday communication.


4. Reduced Behavioural Challenges:

Children with speech and language delays often exhibit behavioural issues such as irritability, frustration, or even withdrawal due to their communication struggles. These behaviours can hinder their ability to engage with speech therapy and other interventions. NeurOptimal® helps children develop better self-regulation, which can lead to fewer behavioural outbursts and an improved attitude toward therapy.

 

5. Promoting Flexibility and Resilience:

One of the key benefits of NeurOptimal® is its ability to promote flexibility and resilience. This is particularly important for children who are working through developmental delays or have experienced trauma. As the brain becomes more flexible and resilient through NeurOptimal® sessions, children may experience improved neural connections that facilitate better language processing and speech development.


The Complementary Role of NeurOptimal® in Speech Therapy

NeurOptimal® is not intended to replace traditional speech therapy. Instead, it serves as a complementary tool that supports the brain in areas critical to language acquisition and communication skills. By training the brain to be more balanced and regulated, children are often better able to engage in speech therapy and process the techniques being taught. Think of NeurOptimal® as a way to “prime” the brain for therapy—preparing the brain to be more receptive, focused, and adaptable.

NeurOptimal® can be especially helpful when children have struggled with speech therapy for a long time without significant progress, or when traditional speech therapy approaches have not worked as well as hoped. It can also be beneficial for children who have co-occurring conditions like autism or ADHD, where difficulties with attention and regulation can significantly impact the efficacy of speech therapy.



Children enjoy there NeurOptimal® sessions
Children enjoy there NeurOptimal® sessions


On A Personal Note:

I have seen how NeurOptimal® sessions can be a useful tool in supporting speech therapy. Before we had our business, Life Brain Training, we rented a NeurOptimal® machine for our eldest daughter, who was 4 at the time, to use to help with her emotional regulation issues. What was a very pleasant surprise, was the feedback we were getting from the speech pathologist about how well she was responding and focusing on her speech sessions and I have no doubt that we have the NeurOptimal® sessions to thank for this.


Conclusion

NeurOptimal® offers a unique and effective support system for children undergoing speech therapy, providing benefits that extend beyond traditional treatments. By helping the brain regulate itself, improve cognitive function, and foster emotional balance, NeurOptimal® creates an environment where children can more fully engage in and benefit from speech therapy.

Since NeurOptimal® is non-invasive and doesn’t involve any medications, it is a safe and comfortable option for children.

When combined with speech therapy, NeurOptimal® offers a holistic approach to supporting your child’s development. Whether your child struggles with speech delays, articulation, language processing, or social communication, NeurOptimal® can be a valuable tool to help them overcome these challenges and thrive in their therapy journey.

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your child’s speech therapy progress, NeurOptimal® may be a game-changing tool in their developmental journey.


How to Get Started with NeurOptimal® for Speech Support

If you’re considering NeurOptimal® for a child undergoing speech therapy, it’s important to work with a trained NeurOptimal® practitioner who understands the needs of children and can tailor sessions to their specific challenges.


I am an Advanced Certified NeurOptimal® trainer and have a particular interest in helping children reach their goals (as I have 3 beautiful children of my own).

I offer in office sessions and also provide machine rentals all around Australia.

So whether or not you would like to do sessions at our Life Brain Training office which is located in Grantham Farm (near Box Hill) in Sydney, NSW, or if you aren’t in Sydney or alternatively, think that doing the training in the comfort of your own home, would suit your family better - we have a solution for you.


If you would like more information, check out our website: www.lifebraintraining.com.au or call me (Carlie) on: 0404 091 510



Carlie Byrom, Advanced NeurOptimal® Trainer at                      Life Brain Training
Carlie Byrom, Advanced NeurOptimal® Trainer at Life Brain Training


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