Map & Compass Neuro-Developmental Therapy

16/08/2025

What we do

At Map & Compass, our reflex integration work is based on the INPP method, supporting development when early building blocks of the nervous system have not fully matured. This situation is sometimes described as neuro-developmental delay or neuro-motor immaturity, and it is often identified by the presence of retained primitive reflexes.

Primitive reflexes are automatic responses that appear in the womb. They are essential for survival at birth and guide development in the first year of life. As the brain matures, these reflexes should gradually integrate/inhibit to make way for more refined, voluntary control. By around twelve months of age, they are no longer needed.

When primitive reflexes remain active beyond this time, they can interfere with the smooth functioning of the central nervous system. This may place extra strain on areas of learning, emotional regulation, sensory regulation, behaviour, and physical skills. Tasks that should feel natural and easy can instead become harder work, requiring more conscious (cortical) effort than they should.

Through the INPP programme, we offer a non-invasive, drug-free approach carried out in an individually prescribed home programme. It involves a structured series of gentle movements designed to give the nervous system a chance to reorganise and allow the primitive reflexes to do what they were designed to do for optimal brain/body function. In essence, the brain is offered a second chance to build stronger foundations for development.

The INPP method has been researched and developed internationally for over 50 years and is used worldwide in both clinical and educational settings. Families who take part often notice meaningful changes: reduced anxiety, steadier emotions, improved motor control, co-ordination, and greater ease with learning. Many also describe a growth in confidence and a stronger sense of self as development moves forward.

If you feel this approach may be helpful for your child, please visit our website to find out more and to book a free enquiry call or an Initial Consultation.

16/08/2025

This is huge!

Imagine the implications…

Department of Education NI
Education Authority
Paul Givan MLA

15/08/2025

Primitive reflexes are the body’s first language — but they’re only the beginning.

As Dr. Robert Melillo explains:

“After primitive reflexes are successfully integrated, the next crucial step is to establish balanced communication between the hemispheres... Without this specific bilateral training, children may continue to experience developmental challenges.”
(Dr. Robert Melillo, Disconnected Kids)

Bilateral integration is that next vital step — helping the left and right sides of the brain work together through movement, rhythm, and sensory coordination.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) offers a structured, research-aligned way to support this next phase in a child’s or adult’s neurological development.

Manchester training in RGM is taking place 20–21 September 2025. A perfect opportunity to start your journey.

12/08/2025

Every baby is born with primitive reflexes: automatic movements like the Moro (startle) reflex or rooting reflex. These reflexes help with survival in the first few months of life, but they're designed to fade as the brain develops.

When they don't fade, or are retained, they can interfere with how a child's brain and body function.
According to Dr. Tony Ebel, retained reflexes can impact:

Balance and coordination
Sensory processing
Emotional regulation
Sleep and attention

For example, a child with a retained Moro reflex might be stuck in 'fight or flight' mode, overreacting to sound, light, or unexpected changes.

This constant stress response can look like anxiety, meltdowns, or hyperactivity.

Retained reflexes don't mean something is 'wrong' with your child. They simply indicate that development might need more support to help the brain catch up. With the right tools, these reflexes can be gently integrated, opening the door for calmer, more connected behaviour.

09/08/2025

https://documentinghope.com/how-a-childs-brain-develops/?mcp_token=eyJwaWQiOjIzOTM0MzIsInNpZCI6NzUwNDk3Njg2LCJheCI6IjI0OTRhZDhmN2E1ZmYyMzNhYjFjYjAxZTc4YmQ0YTZmIiwidHMiOjE3NTQ2OTY2NTQsImV4cCI6MTc1NzExNTg1NH0.HhodAPw7dgNHcHUlsfIw9xIczybrgddgwMdoyRXGIho&fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMDcDFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp9KTROJtEz2FEZixOuG2vcH1zcV959OXxe4EfxE9S_SRKD7OvpZaudRMhe_f_aem_DrIgokXwMVLonAnE6vmPzA

Understanding how a child's brain develops is important for creating effective educational and therapeutic interventions.

07/08/2025

Why should schools consider sending teachers on the INPP One Day Course, Assessing Neuromotor Readiness for Learning?In this informative 16-minute video, Sal...

07/08/2025

The brain develops in sequence — and skipping a step can mean missed potential.

“The natural progression of neural development moves from reflex integration to bilateral coordination. This sequence cannot be rushed or steps skipped without compromising the stability of the neurological system.”
(Dr. Harold Blomberg, Rhythmic Movement Training)

Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, or parent — understanding the role of bilateral integration can transform how you support learning and development.

The Ronnie Gardiner Method offers practical tools to support this process through structured rhythm and movement.

Join our 2-day training this September in Manchester to learn more. https://www.ronniegardinermethod.co.uk/training

25/07/2025

This is a fascinating piece of research that underlines the beauty of the work of reflex integration....and why it should become absolutely normalised especially for children from a background of any kind of trauma. There is a similar piece of work going on in Poland working with Ukranian refugees using the Johansen Individualised Auditory Stimulation (listening programme) to treat trauma with deeply moving results. This is an exciting time in the world for eyes being opened to these types of life-changing interventions. https://jneuroscience.com/2024/08/23/reflex-integration-and-fostered-children-with-emotional-regulation-difficulties-who-have-experienced-neglect/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFDx69leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZYJ7c49Up3-85iu1vL3i8lCiWVH3sM1ZAV3q38bg9_jbXGdq0zwbEhrAQ_aem_XiijXNotAua8g5P87HNOuQ

25/07/2025

25/07/2025

This is just one of multiple pieces of research that are highlighting a key piece of the puzzle of what is going on with so many children facing neurodevelopmental challenges.

Remember… it’s not about changing the child… it’s about giving them a chance to reach their potential. What if there are barriers in the way of your child that CAN BE MOVED?

If you would like for your child to have a full diagnostic assessment for neuro-motor immaturity which includes in depth testing of retained reflexes… AND a plan for the way forward…Map & Compass is here to help.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37484683/