Continuing Education Courses in Primitive Reflex Integration & Rhythmic Movements for Optimal Sensory Processing, Executive Function, and Motor Skills

Brain and Sensory Foundations^® First Level Course (Part 1)

In-depth Training in Reflex Integration and Innate Rhythmic Movements

The Brain and Sensory Foundations, First Level course helps children and adults with: sensory processing, learning, physical strength, goal achievement, and emotional wellbeing.

Do you know children who are bright but have difficulty showing it?

Or children who are big-hearted but prone to angry outbursts?

Are you concerned that you might be missing something in your approach to therapy?

Make a Bigger Impact in Less Time

The Brain and Sensory Foundations First Level course gives you easy-to-use, proven tools to help children, teens, and adults thrive.

Parents and therapists using these tools report increases in sensory processing, balance, academic achievement, harmony in family life, and new levels of calm, fitness, motivation, and happiness. Though the emphasis of this course is on children, the Brain and Sensory Foundations tools are equally beneficial for teens and adults.

Convenient online access!

Enroll Now

Enrollment is closed. Contact us.

Tools for Transformation

The neurodevelopmental movement tools from the Brain and Sensory Foundations training have a maturing effect on the brain, body, and sensory systems. This is why we often see profound improvements for a large variety of challenges. Get evidence-based solutions in a unique, child-friendly way that makes sense and brings lasting results.

Go to a topic below to see how neurodevelopmental movements can help.

Parents & Professionals Love the Brain and Sensory Foundations Course

9 connected circles show relevance of the course to: occupational therapy, parenting, mental health and social work, education and coaching, yoga and massage, health and wellness, vision, speech therapy, and physical therapy.

93% of student surveys show "very good" or "excellent" ratings.

Hear from Your Peers

Andrea A.
Parent

"I am seeing more confidence, better sleep, calmer moods, better coordination, more attentiveness and focus. It’s the most progress I have ever seen with my son, and we have tried MANY interventions—every parent should know this program exists.”

Alejandra Miranda
Occupational Therapist

"This course has been a game-changer! The results I have seen are astounding! I do not think I have seen such dramatic & significant improvements in my 10-year career as an occupational therapist as I did this year!”

Carrie Eskenazi
SLP

"I have been a speech-language pathologist for over 20 years. I have seen astounding changes in relatively short periods of time by implementing reflex integration and neurodevelopmental movements: children with little to no language, who now have conversations with me; children who could not sit still for more than 2 seconds, who now sit in groups with others and listen carefully; children with many phobias and fears, who now participate in their school day with joy."

Ellen Lucey
Occupational Therapist

"Thanks so very much for this wonderful course!! It has completely changed the way I practice OT. Any one who sits near me for any length of time hears about the power of rhythmic movements.”

Anne Nguyen Pham
Teacher

"I have seen phenomenal results with my own child and with my students. All of the students in my class were reading AT or Above grade level by the end of the year. Student behaviors improved!!"

Cathrine Winfree
Medical Massage Therapist

"Thanks to Sonia's program, I'm able to support my clients with techniques that are less physically demanding on me, while providing them with results that extend far beyond the massage table."

Lynda Steed
OTR/L

“I am helping kids experience success like I’ve never seen.”

Dr. Adam Grove
ND, CBIS

"I am a Naturopathic Physician practicing in Anchorage, Alaska...I work with a lot of kids with issues and always look at the reflex issues first and often that is enough to get them back on track. I am focused primarily on brain injury and your tools continue to serve me well with this population."

Rachel Vitello
Occupational Therapist

"The course was awesome! I have taken several courses on reflexes both live and online as well as reading books about the subject. This has been by far the best learning experience about reflexes I have done yet!"

Shelly Willeford
Parent

"My son has responded very well to the rhythmic movements and even reminds me to do them. We have already seen improvement in his being less distracted and less prone to over-reaction. He is beginning to be more calm over all…The best thing is his confidence and his pride in himself. He is so much happier."

Melody Edwards
Physical Therapist

"Sonia is an amazing teacher. She has distilled the clinically applicable information down to the "best of the best". This is an incredibly valuable course. Every physical therapist should take this course."

Sherry Miller
Occuaptional Therapist

"After more than 20 years of experience as an OT and craniosacral therapist with children, I am so inspired by the effectiveness and grateful for the tools I learned in this course.”

Teri Gelgood
LMFT

"[These] neuro-sensory-motor interventions are critical to helping regulate and mature the brainstem, thereby healing the roots of many mental health disorders...I have been more than thrilled with the results...Some examples include a toddler no longer having separation anxiety when her adoptive mother has to go somewhere without her and a 9-yr old boy having fewer dissociative, aggressive episodes at home."

Marge Foran
BA, RDH, COM

"The Brain and Sensory Foundations courses provide so much understanding into what I am observing in clients. It is important to understand how retained reflexes can impact the fine motor skills required for the functions of the orofacial muscles. I highly recommend the Brain and Sensory Foundation courses for those providing orofacial myofunctional therapy."

Dr. Crystal T. Miller
PT, DPT

"The information presented here is life changing! It was instantly applicable to my patients (children, teens, and adults) as well as a game changer in the life of my own son. This not only has become a standard part of my treatment but a staple part of my conversation. Thank you!"

What Makes the Brain and Sensory Foundations Course Special?

You get more. Why? Because there are other important infant movements that drive development and promote reflex integration.

In healthy development reflexes are not acting alone—they are supported and matured by several types of innate, infant (neurodevelopmental) movements. This is why we choose to give you more in the Brain and Sensory Foundations program—because we have seen that it works far better than just primitive reflex integration alone. You get a variety of synergistic neurodevelopmental movements that help reflexes to integrate, making use of the inherent power in natural, holistic development.

We also know that retained primitive reflexes are associated with compensations, stress, tension, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Our program provides you with training in integrative movements to release stress and help with achieving goals. Reflex integration can be more comfortable, deep, lasting, and effective with these supporting tools.

Get Online Training in:

11 infant reflexes, with multiple activities for each
Innate rhythmic movements to improve global function and support reflex integration
Postural reflex development
Building rapport, safety, and connection
Developmental movements
Games for reflex and sensory integration
Protocols for stress release and goal achievement

Enroll Now

This unique combination of activities optimally supports primitive reflex integration, making it the best it can be—plus more fun and rewarding!

Enrollment is closed. Contact us.

Take Out the Guesswork with Our Roadmap to Reflex Integration

Did you know that most individuals get far better results with primitive reflex integration when they do innate rhythmic movements first?

This is just one of many vital strategies for success found in the Roadmap to Reflex Integration.

Whether you already use primitive reflex integration or are just starting, be empowered with a step-by-step system for maximizing outcomes while adapting to individual needs and abilities.

Our Roadmap to Reflex Integration is not a rigid “one-size-fits-all” plan. It is a flow chart that guides you to develop optimal movement programs for individuals of all ages in a manageable progression—the results are measurable and inspiring!

Enroll in the Brain and Sensory Foundations course today and get a treasure trove of effective primitive reflex activities along with your complete Roadmap to Reflex Integration flow chart!

Thumbnail of the primitive reflex integration flow chart that comes with the course.

Get 8 Powerful Sessions to Optimize Primitive Reflex Integration

Get a two-minute Brain Tune Up for releasing stress, plus in-depth instruction on how to use innate rhythmic movements for calming and maturing the brain, body, and sensory systems. Innate rhythmic movements promote sleep and relaxation and are vitally important for ensuring that reflex integration and sensory functioning are the best they can be. Children and adults love these innate rhythmic movements.

Transform anxiety, trauma, shyness, obsessive/compulsive behaviors, selective mutism, challenges with transitions, perfectionism and procrastination. Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR) integration is key to resolving these issues at their core by developing deep relaxation and maturation within the nervous system. This session includes a phenomenal 5-Step Balance Process for taking the stress out of daily occupations and boosting goal achievement.

Everything a Primitive Reflex Integration Course Should Be
...and Much More!

Comprehensive and Effective

Our program is intentionally in-depth to closely replicate the scope and synergy of healthy development: revitalizing the brain, body, and sensory systems.

Support You Can Count On

We are here for you! Our highly-rated support is "above and beyond", "helpful", & "amazing" according to our students.

Evidence Based & Step-by-Step

You get a proven track record, supported by evidence, and step-by-step guidance for producing the best outcomes for each unique individual.

Child-Friendly & Works for All Ages

Harness the power of development itself with movements that are enjoyable and supportive for all—from infants to elders.

Great Value

Our students rave about the huge array of tools that WORK—this exceptional value is beyond compare and totally worthwhile.

Boost Goal Achievement

Anxiety or lack of confidence can impede goal achievement. Our unique 5-Step process takes the stress out of goals & optimizes performance.

Enroll Now for Instant Online Access

Get Primitive Reflex Integration Tools to Boost Physical, Sensory, Social-Emotional, & Cognitive Skills

Tuition

Spiral-bound, full color, printed training manual included.

$495 USD, or $255 USD in two consecutive payments, 30 days apart.
International (non-USA) shipping, $33 USD added at checkout. Some countries may require additional postage fees, if applicable we will contact you prior to shipping your manual.

Purchase Orders

We gladly accept Purchase Orders from USA-based employers. Please follow the instructions here.

Group Rates

Group rates are available for our courses. Rates depend on the number of participants and geographic location, please send us details and a contact number via our contact form.

Program Access through July 31, 2025

Course Assignments for Certificate and/or CEUs due on or before July 31, 2025

Enrollment is closed. Contact us.

Join Here

Meet Your Course Instructor

Sonia Story, MS has been teaching neurodevelopmental movements since 2006.

She is an honors graduate with a Bachelor's degree in biology/psychology and a Master’s degree in Movement Sciences.

Sonia developed the Brain and Sensory Foundations program to provide comprehensive training in neurodevelopmental movements—combining innate rhythmic movements, play, primitive reflexes, and postural reflexes.

She is the author of The Importance of Reflex Integration and the Evidence eBook, giving the rationale and evidence basis for using neurodevelopmental movements for helping with challenges such as ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorders, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, visual skill deficits, poor social skills, gross and fine motor delays and other neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders.

Her work is featured in numerous podcasts, summits, and conferences, and in the books Almost Autism: Recovering Children from Sensory Processing Disorder; Special Ed Mom Survival Guide; Family Health Revolution; and Same Journey, Different Paths—Stories of Auditory Processing Disorder.

Sonia’s mission is to help children and families experience the profound benefits of neurodevelopmental and integrative movements for more functional and fulfilling lives.

Read about Sonia's personal journey with reflex integration

Get more information about Sonia's education and CV

Continuing Education Information

CEU Info

For OTs and OTAs in USA, 1.8 AOTA CEUs* (18 Contact Hours)
[CE Broker Tracking #: 50-32845]

*Move Play Thrive is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development, provider ID# 8892. This distance-learning, online activity is offered at 1.8 CEUs, introductory level, OT Service Delivery/Foundational Knowledge. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

RHE logo showing approval for physical therapy professionals, continuing education course, Brain and Sensory Foundations

For PTs and PTAs in qualifying states of USA:

This course is subcontracted to Redefine Health Education (RHE) for 18 contact hours. Courses subcontracted to RHE will be accepted for PT/PTA licensure credit in all the jurisdictions listed on this web page, pursuant to regulation or direct approval. [Florida CE Broker Number for PTs/PTAs in Florida: Brain and Sensory Foundations, First Level (Part 1) - 20-891759]

NCBTMB logo showing approval for massage therapy, continuing education course, Brain and Sensory Foundations

For Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) in USA (except in New York state) 18 CEUs from NCBTMB

NBCC logo showing approval for mental health professionals, continuing education course, Brain and Sensory Foundations

For professional counselors, 19 credit hours via NBCC, (except in New York state); other states may have contingencies.

Check with your licensure board to verify acceptance of NBCC Approval. Move Play Thrive is an NBCC Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7213 Go to the NBCC State Board Directory to find the applicable contact information.

IAOM logo showing approval for myofunctional therapy professionals, continuing education course, Brain and Sensory Foundations

For International Association of Orofacial Myofunctional (IAOM) members, 18 CEUs.

Brain and Sensory Foundations First Level Course Information

First Level Course Information

The Online Brain and Sensory Foundations course offers multimedia instruction for assessing and remediating innate infant movements: primitive reflexes; postural reflexes; rhythmic; and developmental movements that are retained or underdeveloped. Innate and integrative movements are combined to promote brain and sensory-motor function and the foundation for improved learning, speech, emotional-social skills, physical balance, strength, stamina, and coordination for all ages. Contact Hours: 18

Course Objectives—Upon completion of this course Learners will be able to:

Execute a two-minute Brain Tune Up protocol for stress release and improved learning.
Identify 5 principles important in applying innate rhythmic developmental movements for maturing brain and sensory-motor systems.
Identify at least 3 research studies showing associations of retained infant reflexes with developmental delays, learning challenges or behavioral challenges.
Identify the stimulus and movement pattern for each of 11 key primitive and postural reflexes: Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex, Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex, Symmetric Tonic Neck Reflex, Hands (two) and Feet Reflexes (two), Fear Paralysis Reflex, Moro Reflex, Spinal Galant Reflex, Head Righting Reflex.
Apply movement protocols for integration of 11 key primitive and postural reflexes, thereby maturing the neuro-sensory-motor foundations for skill building.
Plan a “5-Step Balance” process to help with releasing stress and attaining goals.
Facilitate a “5-Step Balance” process to help with releasing stress and attaining goals.

Requirements to Earn CEUs and/or Certificate of Completion

Read course manual and required handouts as indicated for each course session.
Attend or view all sessions for the full duration of the training.
Actively practice the movements for yourself and record your experience in brief journal entries.
Show competency in practical application through two written case studies.
Complete an online end-of-course evaluation survey.
Complete a multiple-choice exam with a score of 75% or higher.

View Course Assignment Instructions
Partial Credit: We cannot award partial credit for this training course.
Students planning to earn CEUs for this course are responsible to verify whether this course meets the requirements of their licensing boards.

First Level, Brain and Sensory Foundations

Course Syllabus

Course FAQs

Instructional Methods

Lecture
Training manual
PowerPoint presentation
Video demonstration
Independent experiential lab practice
Sharing of case studies
Questions and answers

Student Support

Throughout the duration of the training, extensive support is available for participants. Questions are submitted via email to course instructor. Instructor responds to questions via email, phone, or in optional live, online Q & A Sessions. The live, online Q & A sessions are bonus resources and are not required to earn a certificate and/or CEUs. Live, oline Q & A sessions are scheduled twice per month (except in December, when there is only one) and students are notified via email. To facilitate learning, questions are shared anonymously with all current students. Live Q & A sessions are recorded and available for later viewing. Q & A sessions are for questions related to the Brain and Sensory Foundations course. Extensive questions requiring detailed responses outside the scope of this course can be addressed in mentoring calls or via email consultation when available. The rate for extra consultation is $200 per hour with a half hour minimum.

System Requirements

Internet Connection is required. Online recorded sessions are viewable on mobile devices, tablets, cell phones, or computers.
Web browsers and operating systems are supported on the course website.
Browsers: Please use the latest version (or the one before that) of Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, or a modern mobile browser.
Operating Systems: Please use the latest two versions of Windows or Mac.
For the optional Live Q & A sessions: Use Chrome or Firefox browsers. Internet Connection is required to access the live, online learning platform. Go here for system requirements: https://knowledge.kaltura.com/help/kaltura-meeting-system-requirements Use this quick-test page to verify you have what you need to join the optional live Q & A sessions: https://knowledge.kaltura.com/help/quick-tech-check

No Risk 30 Day Guarantee/Cancellation Policy

Full refunds are available within the first 30 days after registration. If you are not satisfied with the course for any reason, email your refund request and return all course materials to PO Box 676, Chimacum, WA 98325 within this timeframe. Refunds will be issued once course materials are received. Course training manual must be unused and in new condition to receive a full refund. View all policies.

Scope of Practice Statement

Depending on your profession, this course may include interventions and modalities that are beyond the authorized scope of your practice. As a licensed professional, you are responsible for reviewing the scope of practice, including activities that are defined in law as beyond the boundaries of practice in accordance with and in compliance with your professional standards. This course content is not intended for use by participants outside the scope of their license or regulation.

Disclosure

Sonia Story, MS, the instructor for the Brain and Sensory Foundations course, receives compensation via Brain and Sensory Support Co. (dba/ Move Play Thrive) for conducting this course.

Disability Accommodations

Please let us know if you need an accommodation to attend this training course. Though we cannot guarantee that we can fulfill every accommodation request, we will do our best. Because the course videos contain visual movement instructions, we are not able to accommodate for those who are blind. For students who are deaf or hard of hearing, course videos have a closed caption option, or you may request a written transcript from support@moveplaythrive.com

Course Sponsor

Move Play Thrive, PO Box 676, Chimacum, WA 98325. For more information contact us.

Be a Powerful Force for Change with the Brain and Sensory Foundations Program

Get family-friendly, hands-on activities!

11 infant reflexes
Innate rhythmic movements
Developmental movements
Tools to release anxiety boost goal attainment
Tested and proven effective/evidence-based
Instructor support
112 page spiral bound reference manual
Works for all ages—infant to elder