Integrated Listening Systems
I have recently begun to offer iLS, a listening treatment program that is complementary to traditional speech and language therapy.
In his 2015 bestseller "The Brain's Way of Healing", Dr. Norman Doidge describes iLS as one of the innovative discoveries that yields remarkable results. Dr. Doidge has helped make the concept "neuroplasticity" both commonly understood and widely accepted. Rather than assuming that children's brains are hardwired in a particular way, we can provide the stimulation and training to help children learn the skills they are lacking. How Does iLS Work? iLS uses music to provide new sensory input to help reorganize and train children's (and adults') brains, thus causing new neural pathways to be formed. The music selections in the six listening programs have been filtered to amplify certain important frequencies, depending on each child's specific needs. Participants listen to primarily classical music through headphones; sound travels through their ear canal while simultaneous vibration in the headphones causes sounds to be perceived via bone conduction. The auditory and vestibular (balance) systems both receive important stimulation that helps to integrate multiple forms of sensory input. In addition, movement activities are completed while listening so that children practice using their body and hands in coordinated ways, and to use their eye gaze effectively, all while listening. The iLS Focus has four main listening programs. These are:
Programs typically range from 40 to 60 sessions of 1 hour each. It is suggested that the listening program be completed at minimum twice a week, though iLS recommends three to five sessions per week for optimal progress. If you are interested in this treatment for your child, we can discuss what frequency or time commitment would be possible. The iLS treatment is recommended to address the following areas:
You can read more about the iLS approach and findings from research studies at their website. |