Answering Your Questions About BrainSTIM

When it comes to developmental therapy, there’s no ‘quick fix’. Each child’s needs are unique, and the road to growth often feels uncertain. But ask any parent who’s been through the process, and they’ll tell you: the commitment is worth it. Therapy programs that integrate clinic visits with homecare activities have proven transformative—not just for children, but for their families as well. These are some of the more commonly asked questions we hear at BrainSTIM:

1. How long is the program?

The most common question parents ask is, “How long will this take?” The answer isn’t simple. Think of the therapy process like building a bridge: the length of time depends on the gap being crossed. Is your child significantly delayed? How much time will they spend in therapy? And, most importantly, how consistently will they engage in homecare activities? For most families, the program spans a minimum of six months, assuming weekly sessions. However, it’s not unusual for some children to need longer, particularly if their delays are more pronounced. Accelerated progress is possible with intensives, such as school holiday programs or additional appointments. It’s less about rushing to the finish line and more about steady, meaningful steps forward.

2. How soon can we expect to see results?

Another frequent concern is the time it takes to notice change. The reality is that progress depends on the child’s starting point and the level of commitment to the program. Some parents see improvements in their child’s focus or coordination within a single day. Others may notice subtle shifts over a month. Most families report progress within one to two weeks of consistent homecare. These early wins—whether it’s better attention, calmer mornings, or improved motor skills—are the building blocks for long-term success. Therapy works because it creates a ripple effect: small changes add up over time, reshaping your child’s developmental trajectory.

3. Is this therapy compatible with my child’s current medications?

One of the most reassuring aspects of movement-based therapy programs is that they’re entirely compatible with medications. There are no contraindications to worry about as medications focus on neurotransmitters. Whereas these programs focus on physical and neurological stimulation as well as functional disconnection, targeting areas of the brain responsible for motor skills, emotional regulation, and sensory processing. They don’t interfere with existing treatments; instead, they complement them.

4. How much time will homecare require, and what should I prioritise?

Homecare is where the magic happens. It’s not just an extension of clinic work; it’s the foundation of the entire program. But how much time does it take? In the beginning, families can expect to spend 20–30 minutes, 2–3 times a day, as they learn the exercises. Once routines become second nature, this often reduces to 5–10 minutes of reflex integration work and five minutes of core and balance exercises, paired with hemispheric stimulation tools. These tools—worn during everyday activities like breakfast or homework—are crucial. They provide subtle but consistent stimulation, strengthening neural pathways without disrupting daily life. Ideally, children use the tools for one hour, twice a day.

5. How can I integrate homecare activities into our daily routine?

This is where creativity and flexibility come in. Hemispheric tools can be used during any activity, making them easy to incorporate into a busy family schedule. Morning routines, car rides, or even TV time can double as therapy sessions. Some families find that mornings work best, especially since reflex integration exercises can calm children before school. Others use homecare as an after-school activity, offering screen time as a reward afterward. Many parents prefer evenings, weaving therapy into bedtime rituals to create a calming wind-down routine. The key is consistency, not perfection. Every family finds what works for them, and it’s this adaptability that makes the program manageable.

6. Do all aspects of homecare need to be done equally, or can we focus on specific areas?

For some parents, the program’s demands can feel overwhelming. Reflex work, balance exercises, core strengthening—it’s a lot to juggle. That’s why customisation is critical. Practitioners work with each family to create a plan that feels fair and achievable. That said, fully committing to the program means embracing its intensity. The best results come from stimulating reflexes 2–3 times a day and integrating balance and rhythm exercises at least 1–2 times daily. Families who take this approach often find the effort pays off in tangible, meaningful progress.

7. How often will clinic visits be necessary, and how long will they last?

In addition to homecare, regular clinic visits are vital. These appointments provide focused, intensive stimulation to reinforce the work done at home. Sessions are typically offered in one- or two-hour blocks. One-hour sessions alternate between the tech room (for digital and interactive therapies) and the exercise room (for physical work). Two-hour sessions combine both in one visit. Initially, weekly two-hour sessions are recommended to flood the brain with stimulation and jump-start progress.

Therapy programs aren’t just about achieving milestones—they’re about transformation. They empower children to overcome barriers, build confidence, and reach their full potential. But they also reshape families, creating new routines, fostering connection, and inspiring hope. The journey isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. For every parent celebrating their child’s first coordinated jump or newly developed focus, the message is clear: progress is possible, and every step forward matters. With the right tools, guidance, and commitment, families can navigate the path to growth, one milestone at a time.