Empowering Steps

A Motor Intervention Program for Children and Youth Living with NeuroDevelopmental Disabilities.

The Empowering Steps Movement Therapy Program (ESMT) is an innovative, gymnastics motor intervention program for children and youth living with neurodevelopmental disabilities, says Vivien Symington, the developer of the program in Coquitlam who is now partnering with Delta Gymnastics.

The Empowering Steps Movement Therapy Program (ESMT) is a 1:1 motor intervention program that focuses on function rather than diagnosis, treating children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. ESMT promotes physical literacy and self efficacy by providing an emotionally safe and nurturing environment.

How it Works:

  • Children are first assessed on their current motor skills and then placed in one of our 10 stages of motor development

  • Equipment such as balance beams, trampolines, trapezes and bars are used to teach a variety of skills promoting balance, coordination, and strength which becomes a greater need, as a child progresses through the stages

  • We develop behaviour plans and communication styles specific to each child’s needs

  • Reassessments take place biannually to monitor physical, emotional, and social development. At that time, any necessary curriculum adjustments are made

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Treating all diagnoses such as, but not limited to, ASD, FASD, CP, GDD, Down Syndrome, and children who are unable to walk.

Empowering Steps Behavioral Intervention Also Available

The one-to-one nature of the session allows for your child to build a trusting relationship with their Therapist, as well as allow for adequate physical and emotional support throughout their session. Daily logs are kept each session to record responses or changes to behaviour, communication methods/improvements, current co-regulation or self regulation strategies, routines, preferred activities, and motor skills.
More Information

This program is most beneficial for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Fetal Alcohol Symptom Disorder (FASD), Anxiety disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD, and other behavioural disorders or challenges.

30min, 45min, and 60min classes available at Delta Gymnastics after assessment has been conducted

To Schedule An Assessment:

Phone: 604-544-1201
Email: esmt@clubaviva.ca

MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL, GYMNASTICS IS FUN!