Cliff speaks with Lara Barnes, the founder of Brain Development UK. Lara helps children with autism, ADHD and learning differences by rebuilding the foundation of the brain through sensory work and primitive reflex integration. She shares some simple tests you can do at home and the details of exercises and tools you can buy and use yourself to significantly help your child.

If your child struggles with balance, communication, is non-verbal, has challenges with coordination, incontinence, reading or focus, this conversation is especially important for you.

EPISODE REVEALS

·      Early brain development can be positively influenced by rebuilding foundational sensory and reflex pathways, especially for neurodiverse children.

·      Achieving motor milestones e.g. rolling, crawling, and tummy time are critical for long-term development. Their absence, delay, or acceleration can be a warning sign.

·      Stimulating the spinal gallant reflex can help to address incontinence. 

·      Foundational reflexes and sensory integration directly affect vision and higher learning functions; simple at-home assessments can identify areas for support. 

·      Sensory input, in particular through touch and vibration can improve body awareness and brain development.

·      If you can´t feel your tongue fully, speech is difficult. Lara recommends a simple tool to help stimulate the mouth.

·      Gradual and consistent sensory work can greatly reduce hypersensitivity.

·      Dietary change is a highly effective starting point. There is a lot of support available to help with this.

·      Small, consistent changes really do make a huge difference.

BEST MOMENTS

“I help to reset the foundation of the brain … and we utilize the sensory system to do that.” 

“If a child was contained a lot e.g. in a car seat … sometimes those reflexes just don’t integrate.” 

“I’d identify what side of the brain is weaker, and then we would do exercises for that too, and use sensory stimulus on that area and it doesn’t take long.”

“There’s so much parents can do themself.”

“You can actually buy a cheap power plate…for them to play on or sit on.”

“If you feel your body, you can relate to other people.”

“Start with diet.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.braindevelopment.co.uk

[email protected]

Podcast – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-brain-development-podcast/id1825344229

Socials @braindevelopmentUK

Stimulating toothbrush – https://bristlscience.com – use the discount code shared in the episode to get 10% off.

Dairy free chocolate – https://www.ombar.com/oatmlk and https://montybojangles.com/products/cocoa-nib-nights

RESOURCES

Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” – ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw

CONTACT ME

Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X – @KilmisterCliff

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he’s not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!