Dynamic Core for Kids - Modules 2-7

Overview

Dynamic Core for Kids (DC4K) is a new approach to core stability for children with challenges. Shelley Mannell, PT, and Julie Wiebe, PT developed and present this online pediatric physiotherapy course based on this approach. The online course recording is presented here as individual learning Modules 1-7, with each module building on the previous presentation.

Please note that Module 1 is sold separately. You can buy Dynamic Core for Kids - Module 1 on its own here, or you can buy it as a bundle with Modules 2-7 by clicking 'Buy Course' on the top left side of this page.

Learning objectives

• Articulate the evolution of practice from a musculoskeletal interpretation of core strength, to an understanding of the dynamic system's interaction of the “anticipatory core” with the intra-abdominal pressure system, the sensory systems, the “reactive core” and the brain for a responsive “Core Strategy” that meets the needs of pediatric patient populations.
• Compare and contrast the research evidence discussing anticipatory, reactive and compensatory postural control deficits in three different pediatric populations (CP, DCD, ASD).
• Discuss the typical and atypical development of anticipatory core components, postural control, and common compensations in a variety of pediatric populations.
• Analyze postural alignment and functional movement with new attention to deficits in maturation, breathing mechanics, sensory deficits and faulty central stability strategies as contributing variables to the pediatric patient presentation.
• Integrate the use of optimized breath mechanics as the gateway to anticipatory central stability and the postural control system.
• Execute external qualitative evaluation of the diaphragm, pelvic floor, TA and their coordinated function via observational, and palpation analysis of postural alignment, dysfunctional breathing patterns, muscular recruitment patterns, movement strategies and habits, and postural control compensations during movement tasks.
• Develop intervention programs that coordinate the “anticipatory core” foundation with more superficial postural muscle groups (postural synergists) to promote aligned posture, improved balance and functional movement patterns in pediatric patients.
• Learn to monitor, cue, and modify functional and exercise tasks to facilitate the integration of Core Strategy into clinical programming for a variety of patient populations.
• Apply the components of intervention programs, addressing the interaction of sensory systems and core stability in several diagnoses common in pediatrics (CP, hydrocephalus, ASD, toe walking and torticollis).

What’s included

• Close to 10 hours of video lessons.   
• Bite-sized information: all of the content is broken down into bite-sized chunks, so that you can easily watch a video on your break, over lunch, or for a few minutes at night.
• Lifetime access. You can return to this course at any time. If any material is updated or added, you will have access to the new content.
• Certificate of completion. Once you've completed the course, you will receive a certificate for your professional portfolio.
• Downloadable slides/workbook so you can follow along as you take the course
• Access to this course is through Embodia, and although some of the content may be downloadable (such as a workbook or slides if included), the majority cannot. This is to protect the instructor’s material and to prevent the content from being shared freely on the Internet.
• Embodia is mobile-friendly and can be accessed by phone, tablet, and computer.
• There is no start date or completion date. You can complete the course at your own pace.
• You will be sent a receipt as soon as you purchase this course. This receipt can be used for education grants and for tax purposes.
• A Special Coupon for 15% off any other online course on Embodia Academy when you’ve completed this course!

Audience

This course is designed to integrate current theory and practice in pediatric treatment with a systems approach that uses the diaphragm and breathing mechanics as an access point for core stability for children. This provides an attainable and accessible starting point to impact multiple systems that are intertwined with core stability: alignment, postural control, balance, sensory processing, and emotional self-regulation as well as functional gross and fine motor skills.

The physiotherapist/physical therapist (PT), occupational therapist (OT), and speech-language pathologist (SLP) will gain the theoretical basis and clinical reasoning for a neuromuscular systems approach to core stability to create a foundation for clinically relevant programs from assessment to evidenced-based treatment plan development. Co-professional collaboration and referral will be stressed.

The physiotherapist assistant (PTA), occupational therapy assistant (OTA), and speech-language pathologist assistant (SLPA) will gain insight into the theoretical basis for the assessment process, and reasoning behind the approach integrated into the therapist designed POC to aide with the implementation and progression of treatment programs to ensure continuity of care.

How long do I have access to the course?

Once you have purchased the courses, they are yours to keep and watch at your own pace. Pause, review, etc for as long as you like. So you can buy now, and watch later when time permits!

What is the difference between the live and online courses?

The content for DC4K Live and DC4K Online is essentially the same. The online version has some additional materials, videos, and self-guided labs to assist with online learning.