The Building Block Activities
of Movement-Based Learning
The Building Block Activities (BBAs) are sensory stimulation activities that involve hands-on touch and gentle manipulation. These activities serve to remind the brain and body of the early neural patterns imbedded in our neural system, drawing them out to be re-experienced and integrated into the brain body system. When these patterns are reintegrated into our neural system they provide a foundation for coordinated movement, higher level thinking, learning of all kinds, and the development of complex skills and abilities.
Infants and babies develop the ability to move by progressively learning a series of developmental movements which serve as building blocks for more complex movements
We are born with billions of neurons that develop extensive neural networks from our movements and sensory experiences, beginning at conception. Every movement an infant initiates or experiences (e.g. being lifted up, bathed, etc.) is stored in the brain as a sensation, forming a neural network of that sensory pattern.
As the infant grows, these early neural sensory patterns and reflexes are catalysts for the developmental movements which underlie our ability to learn, move, and create. The sensory patterns, reflexes, and developmental movements are essential for emotional development, self-management, the basic skills of walking and talking, and academic skills such as reading, writing, and staying on task.
The Developmental Sequence
Sensory Input > Neural Patterns > Primitive Reflexes > Developmental Movements
This Developmental Sequence supports and strengthens the foundational structure of learning so that children and adults of all ability levels can learn more easily.
Using the Building Block Activities and related integrative movements, we can revisit the Developmental Sequence rooted in our neural system to integrate and coordinated our brain functions. Our bodies do have the capacity to learn or re-learn patterns so that we can function optimally at the neural level, allowing us to enhance learning and performance in all areas of our life.
The application of BBA techniques can be therapeutic, preventative, or used to improve performance. As I work with clients using these sensory patterns, it is possible to create a more solid neurological foundation for an enjoyable and productive life for children and adults facing mental, emotional, or physical challenges.
The Building Block Activities were developed by Cecilia Koester, M.Ed., a teacher of children with special needs since 1979, both in the pubic schools and in private practice. She has authored two books: I Am the Child: Using Brain Gym® with Children Who Have Special Needs (with Gail Dennison) and Movement Based Learning for Children of All Abilities. Through her company, Movement Based Learning, Inc., she facilitates workshops and presentations and does private consultations. She also teaches the course she created, Brain Gym® for Special Needs Providers, and offers a licensure program for those who wish to facilitate the course.