Therapy, Patience, and Progress: The Long-Term Vision for Neurodivergent Children

The Jess Ngaheu Show

In today’s episode, Jess Ngaheu shares her journey as a mother to Hawaiki, who has cerebral palsy, and explores the importance of persistence in therapy for children with special needs. Drawing from her own experience and the therapeutic programs she has designed at Little Superheroes, Jess discusses the emotional roller coaster that many parents face and why it’s essential to hold onto hope, even when progress seems slow or non-existent.

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Challenges of Persistent Therapy:
   • Jess opens up about the emotional toll therapy can take on both children and parents.
   • The frustrations and doubts when progress seems stagnant.
   • The experience of "taking 10 steps backwards" after a breakthrough.
2. Understanding Neuroplasticity:
   • An introduction to the concept of neuroplasticity and how the brain’s ability to change and adapt is particularly strong in children.
   • Jess references a study in Nature Review Neuroscience by Dr. Mzenik, highlighting that consistent, targeted therapies can significantly reshape neural pathways.
3. Real Stories of Hope and Progress:
   • Jess shares touching stories from her clinic, including a boy named Uzziah and a breakthrough moment with her own children playing together for the first time.
   • These stories emphasize that even small changes, such as a smile or eye contact, are signs of underlying neurological development.
4. Practical Tips for Staying Motivated:
   • Celebrate Small Wins: Create a victory jar or keep a progress journal to track your child’s development.
   • Surround Yourself with Support: Lean on other parents, therapists, and professionals who understand the journey.
   • Take Care of Your Mental Health: Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
5. The Long-Term Vision of Therapy:
   • Why maintaining a long-term perspective is crucial.
   • Even when you feel like progress isn’t visible, the brain is working and growing, and over time, those changes will become apparent.

Takeaway Message:

The journey of therapy for special needs children is often long and filled with ups and downs. But persistence, resilience, and hope are key. Celebrate small wins, trust the process, and never give up because every effort you put in today is shaping a brighter future for your child.

Resources:

• For more information on neuroplasticity and therapeutic approaches, visit our website at https://www.littlesuperheroes.com.au/

To learn more about Maternal Grounding and to book Pregnancy Massage, Postpartum Massage, and Baby Massage, visit https://maternalgrounding.com.au/services/

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