Developmental Foundations: Understanding Emotional Regulation

29 Sep - 29 Sep 2022 @ University of Michigan Flint

Ann Arbor

The nature of the paediatric rehabilitation caseload has changed in the last decade. Many clients now present for Physical Therapy with sensory processing and emotional self-regulation challenges as well as postural control and gross motor deficits. The research is documenting the inter-relationship between sensory processing, self-regulation and postural control. Furthermore, it is recognized that emotional regulation is critical for learning of new motor skills. This creates a challenge for Physical Therapists: How do we integrate this research using practical strategies that support the goals for the child and family? This course provides you with an overview of the interactive nature of sensory processing, emotional regulation and postural control in typical children and how this becomes disrupted in children with motor and sensory challenges or those who have experienced developmental trauma. The epigenetic of trauma is briefly explored. Finally, trauma informed principles of treatment as well as motor and sensory treatment strategies that can be clinically useful in Physical Therapy will be discussed.

Learning Objectives

On completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  • Discuss the typical development of emotional regulation and list the difficulties encountered by children with motor and sensory challenges.
  • Discuss the impact of developmental trauma on the development of emotional regulation.
  • Explain the inter-relationship between sensory processing, emotional regulation and postural control in children with motor and sensory challenges and those who have experienced developmental trauma.
  • Identify the role of alignment in mature postural control and emotional regulation.
  • Label 3 basic principles of trauma-informed practice.
  • Recognize 5 behavioural and 5 physical signs of stress in children.
  • Understand the clinical application of these concepts through videotape and case studies.