If you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist trying to help kids with reflex integration, you probably know how hard it can be to fit exercises into everyday life. The truth is, if a program feels like extra work, it probably won’t last. That’s why I created the SIMPLE approach—so that reflex and sensory integration can be easy, fun, and actually work!
Before we dive in, be sure to check out the full podcast episode below where I go into more detail!
The best way to help kids with reflex integration is to make it part of what they already do. Instead of adding extra activities, we need to fit it into their day naturally.
S – Structure and Schedule
If an activity doesn’t fit into a child’s daily routine, it’s easy to forget. Instead of adding more work, we should ask:
🕒 What is their current schedule? Can we fit movements into playtime, class transitions, or bedtime routines?
🔄 Can we replace rather than add? For example, instead of regular stretching, can they do a reflex movement instead?
🏡 Is it built into daily habits? Simple movements can happen while getting dressed, walking to class, or during snack time.
By making these exercises part of their routine, they become easier to stick with!
I – Independence
If a program depends too much on adults, it won’t last long. Kids should be able to do many of the activities on their own! We ask:
👦 Can the child lead the activity?
🚀 Does it encourage self-initiation?
📝 Are instructions simple enough for them to follow alone?
When kids feel in control, they are more likely to keep doing the exercises and improve over time.
M – Measurable
How do we know if the program is working? We measure progress! Reflex work isn’t just about doing exercises—it’s about seeing results. We ask:
📊 Are changes noticeable?
🧩 Is progress easy to track?
📝 Can we measure improvement in a skill?
For example, if a child struggles with balance, we track how long they can stand on one foot. If they have trouble focusing, we measure how long they can stay engaged in an activity. Seeing small improvements keeps kids and educators, and caregivers motivated!
L – Learn
What is the child actually learning from this program? Every movement should have a clear goal. We ask:
📚 What skill are they building?
🎯 What’s the bigger goal?
🔍 Is it really helping them improve?
For example, if a child struggles with handwriting, we focus on core strength and hand coordination. If they have trouble sitting still in class, we work on activities that improve body awareness and self-regulation, etc. Everything we do has a purpose!
E – Ease
If an exercise is too complicated, it won’t happen. A program should make life easier, not harder. We ask:
🛠 Is it simple to do?
🏡 Does it fit easily into home or school life?
🙌 Can caregivers and teachers follow along without stress?
If something feels too hard, we adjust it! The easier a program is to follow, the more likely it is to work long-term.
So, let’s recap! The SIMPLE approach to home and school programs includes:
S – Structure and Schedule (Make it part of their routine!)
I – Independence (Let them take charge!)
M – Measurable (Keep track of progress!)
P – Play-Based (Make it fun!)
L – Learn (Focus on real skills!)
E – Ease (Keep it simple!)
👩⚕️ Are you a school-based OT needing structured, play-based strategies for reflex and sensory integration?
📚 Are you a special education instructor looking for proven tools to enhance neurodevelopment and learning readiness?
🎯 Are you a teacher in search of an easy movement-based interventions to boost focus, coordination, and academic performance in your classroom?
🏡 Are you are a homeschooler seeking brain-body activities for better learning and development?
🧩 Are you a special service provider looking for a clear framework to create individualized interventions for student success?
If you answered yes to any of these, we have the training, resources, and strategies you need! 🎯
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of RITP at School on March 29th—a step-by-step guide to implementing a reflex and sensory integration program that actually works in schools.
After three years of development and real-world testing in various school settings with multiple therapists, we’ve refined this program to be practical, effective, and easy to integrate into your daily routine.
