Why This Approach Is Worth Exploring for Neurodevelopment and Regulation
When I picked up The Stephens-Sarlós Program: Rewiring the Brain Using Sensorimotor Exercises I was intrigued by the idea that targeted movement and sensorimotor work could influence nervous system maturity and behavioural patterns. The book is a deep dive into how retained primitive reflexes and immaturity in sensory and motor functions can affect attention, reading, writing, speech development, clumsiness and other areas that schools regularly support. drsarlos+1
As a SENDCo and Nurture Base Lead passionate about attachment theory, relational practice and building brain capacity, I found the book expands traditional thinking about regulation and readiness to learn. It encourages educators to consider that difficulties often labelled as behavioural or academic may actually originate in sensorimotor immaturity that affects the whole nervous system. drsarlos
Understanding Sensorimotor Foundations
This book is not an easy read or a quick fix. It is a long, detailed programme that explains how primitive reflexes work in early development and why they matter later in life if they are not integrated as expected. The core idea is that unresolved primitive reflexes can contribute to a range of challenges that look very different on the surface but may share a common neurological root. drsarlos
From my perspective this matters in schools because it offers a developmental framework for understanding behaviours that we sometimes respond to with surface level strategies. When we recognise that underlying nervous system immaturity may be involved we can shift from asking what a child is doing wrong to asking what skills and regulation patterns are still developing. That shift aligns with attachment aware and brain supportive practice.
Practical Tools and Movement Work
What makes this book stand out for me is the extensive sets of sensorimotor exercises it provides. These are practical activities that target specific reflexes and sensory pathways with the intention of helping the nervous system mature towards more effective processing and control. In essence the movement work supports the body to organise in ways that free the brain to engage more fully in learning and regulation. drsarlos
In my work I see a lot of children who struggle with regulation and attention. Introducing movement-based regulation practices that are grounded in sensori-motor development gives staff a tangible way to help a brain become ready for learning rather than simply reacting to behaviour. This supports the nurture base ethos of creating safe predictable routines and opportunities for co-regulation.
Attachment, Regulation and Capacity Building
From an attachment informed viewpoint, this programme complements relationship based work beautifully. Attachment does not happen in an abstract cognitive world. It is embodied. Human development is sensorimotor first and social relational second. When children feel connected to an adult and participate in movement and regulation work together it supports both physiological and psychological regulation.
This book encourages adults to engage with children in ways that build agency and capacity over time. It honours that developmental change takes consistent practice and supportive adult presence rather than quick solutions.
Who Will Find This Useful
This is not a book limited to therapists or clinicians. It has relevance for educators, therapists, nurture leads, SENCOs and anyone working with children who have attention, sensory processing or motor control difficulties. It does require dedication to learn and apply, but that investment aligns with the long haul nature of neurodevelopment and relational learning.
The book encourages a shift in perspective from surface behaviour to underlying neurological development. That shift is invaluable in inclusive practice.
Final Thoughts
The Stephens-Sarlós Program: Rewiring the Brain Using Sensorimotor Exercises is a substantial resource. It challenges us to think holistically about the nervous system, movement and learning. It expands the toolkit for regulation and capacity building by offering concrete exercises grounded in developmental science.
For educators committed to supporting children to be regulated, connected and ready to engage in learning this book is a rich resource that encourages deep thinking and sustained practice.
Highly recommended for professionals who value building brains through embodied regulation and relational support.