Bi-lateral Integration

At Astrolabe Therapy we use a unique combination of three different Bilateral Integration programmes to help develop coordination and balance, improving motor and executive functioning skills. Our programmes are individualised according to your child’s needs to integrate the sensory system and stimulate the neurological links between movement and cognition.

Bi-lateral Integration involves the ability to coordinate the two sides of the body and develop lateralisation using simultaneous and contralateral movements of the two sides, developing hemispheric integration of the brain. Poor communication between both hemispheric parts of the brain can result in disintegrated functioning, which leads to multi-processing and multi-tasking abilities, making movement automatic and efficient.

When movement requires conscious thought rather than occurring automatically, it can hinder learning and cognitive development. This motor planning slows processing speed, limiting the ability to learn as it impedes the capability to sequence, organise, store and retrieve information, therefore inhibiting multi-tasking capabilities.

It can be used with individuals of all ages and abilities in the classroom, sports, and clinical settings. It also benefits patients who have previously suffered a stroke or Parkinson’s disease.

Delays in the development of Bilateral Integration:

Bi-lateral integration difficulties are associated with poor sensory-motor skills, more notably in relation to the vestibular, ocular, and postural control systems. Additionally, those who lack bi-lateral integration tend to have difficulties with motor planning to help perform a task, which can manifest as clumsiness and disorganisation.

Certain activities that might be impacted by poor bi-lateral integration:

Using both sides of the body simultaneously, like cutting with scissors, pedalling a bike, swimming in a coordinated way, etc.
Difficulties staying upright for long periods of time.
Difficulties with keeping eyes on a moving target or tracking across a page.
Difficulties staying seated because of the need for movement.
Late or poor establishment of hand preference.
Avoidance crossing the body midline.
Reversal of letters and/ or difficulties with reading, writing, and spelling.

Difficulties with bi-lateral coordination are associated with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) or Dyspraxia.