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How to use Anat Baniel Method® at Home to help your Child with CVI

you can support your child with CVI in ways that feel natural and intuitive! 

As a parent, especially one navigating the unique challenges of raising a child with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), you might often find yourself searching for tools and methods that truly make a difference.

Enter the gentle, respectful Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement® — a transformative approach that could be just what you're looking for.



Understanding CVI and Its Challenges 

Before diving into how NeuroMovement® can help, let's take a moment to understand CVI.

Unlike other visual impairments, CVI is rooted in the brain's ability to process visual information rather than issues within the structure of the eyes.

This means that while your child's eyes may be perfectly healthy, their brain struggles to interpret what they see. This can impact everything from recognizing faces to navigating their environment.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when faced with such challenges, but remember—you're not alone on this journey.

Many parents have walked this path before you and have used the innovative Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement® to empower their children brain to create new connections and learning.


What is Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement®? 

Imagine if there were a way to support child’s potential by engaging their brain in new and exciting ways. The Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement® does just that!

ABM®NM® focuses on the powerful connection that you can create through gentle movements and interactions designed to stimulate the brain, encouraging it to form new neural connections.

Think of it as providing a roadmap or GPS for your child’s brain—a guide that helps them explore different pathways until they find those that work best for them.

This method isn’t about pushing or forcing change; it’s about inviting growth through curiosity and exploration.

By focusing on what your child CAN do rather than what they can't, you create an environment ripe for learning and development.



Keeping the lights low can help your child with Cortical Vision Impairment

Getting Started using NeuroMovement® to help your child with CVI at Home

You might be wondering, How can I incorporate this method into our daily routine?

The good news is that it's simpler than you think!

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Create a Calm Environment

Begin by setting up a peaceful space free from distractions.

This doesn’t require an elaborate setup; even a cozy corner in your living room will do.

For kids with CVI reducing the amount of light in the room can be really helpful. Turn off the ceiling lights and close the curtains at least part-way. Use soft lamps to make sure you don’t trip on things!

Reduce visual clutter and understand that high contrast colors help distinguish one thing from another.

Ensure this space feels safe and inviting—a place where your child feels comfortable exploring their environment.

Remember, you as the parent/caregiver are part of the environment so you feeling relaxed and not rushed is super powerful for your child.

2. Observe Your Child

Observation is key. 

  • Spend time watching how your child moves naturally during playtime or daily activities. Notice any patterns or preferences they exhibit—do they favor one side over the other? Are there particular movements they enjoy?

Observation doesn’t just have to be with your eyes! 

  • Listen with your ears to hear when your child feels comfortable or when they are using a lot of effort. See if you can help them so that their explorations are just within the realm of ease. We want them to encounter explorations at their existing skill level.

  • With a very, very light touch follow their movements with your hand to give them an extra-sensory experience of what they are already doing. (as a caregiver you could experiment how effective this is with a friend or a partner first)

By tuning into these details, you'll be giving your child new pieces of sensory information that their brain can use to make new connections. AND, you’ll gain insights into areas where your child might benefit from additional support.

3. Introduce Gentle Movements

Start with simple explorations inspired by everyday actions like reaching or turning their head towards sounds or light sources.

For example, use that very light, observational touch and gently guide their hand towards a toy placed within reach, encouraging them to explore without pressure.

Remember—the goal isn't perfection but for the brain to gather more experiences and information to make new brain connections that lead to progress!


4. Encourage Exploration

Asking open-ended questions can spark curiosity:

“I wonder what the toy feels like.”

“What happens if we move our arm like this?”

“Can we wiggle our fingers together?”

These prompts invite engagement without dictating outcomes—allowing your child room for discovery on their own terms.

5. Celebrate Small changes

The thing about brains is that there are no brain connections that can be considered small. 

Each tiny brain connection has the potential to lead to amazing changes.

Every small step forward deserves recognition!

Whether it’s maintaining eye contact longer than usual, sleeping or eating better, or trying out new movement patterns— internally celebrate these victories for the milestones that they are!

Your child made the changes because YOU provided your child’s brain with an environment where their brain had a beautiful opportunity to create new neural connections.


you don’t have to guess how to help your child with CVI at home

Are you ready to take the next step in supporting your child with CVI's journey towards reaching their milestones?

Imagine having a NeuroMovement® Practitioner right beside you in your home to COACH you using the principles of brain change with your child IN REAL TIME!

It's like having a treasure trove of tips, insights, and inspiration sitting right beside you! 

Online @ Home Coaching with Phoebe MacRae

Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement® is all about connecting deeply with your child and providing the conditions for their brains to make new connections to gain new functions and learning. It is not a replacement for medical care. Consult your doctor.