Astronaut Training
What is Astronaut training?
It is a precise protocol that is designed to promote optimal vestibular function. The vestibular system is essential for us to achieve and maintain appropriate physical, social, emotional, and cognitive performance throughout the life span. This protocol targets the vestibular sensors in the inner ear which provides us with information regarding our body and movement in space, in order to promote a positive interaction with the environment.
This results in the following functional outcomes:
- Regulation of orientation, arousal, and sustained attention
- Emotional stability
- Sense of centeredness in order to balance in gravity
- Timing and rhythmicity of movement
- Spatial awareness
- Ocular stabilization
- Tolerance of movement
What are common behaviors suggestive of poor vestibular processing?
- Feeling “lost in space”
- Over or under active
- Poor balance
- Hypervigilant of visual input
- Afraid of being in the dark
- Emotionally labile
- Fear of moving on unstable surfaces
What are potential causes that may result in the disruption of the vestibular system?
- Ear infections
- Allergies
- High fever
- Head trauma
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Congenital or developmental disorders
At Kids In Motion / Ivy Rehab for Kids, we begin by testing a child’s vestibular system and then gauge if they are hyper (over stimulated) or hypo (under stimulated). Therapists will then implement Astronaut Training programs to improve a child’s ability to move, look at things in environment and to listen. But most of all we use this program to bring the fun back.
If you have questions about your child’s development or perhaps a vestibular dysfunction, contact one of our clinics to set up an appointment or to schedule a screening with a therapist.
