A ground-breaking book uncovers scientific findings about the influence of gravity - and the vestibular system - on children’s physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. Dr. Melodie de Jager explains how delayed milestones, poor sensory integration, autism, anxiety disorders and other challenges can, in many cases, be improved through “movement as medicine”.

If you are new to podcasts, simply click on the arrow to listen to Melodie and Mariette, or on the download button to download the conversation onto your device.

In Episode 1 of the podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful, Melodie explains

• how gravity can only be studied in the absence thereof – thank goodness for space travelling!

• how each of us resists gravity 24/7

• what children with learning problems have in common with space travellers

Written by dr. Melodie de Jager, dr. Oleg Efimov and Victoria Efimova, and available from www.mindmoves.co.za

• why we should take note when a child habitually slouches

• the role of vestibular dysfunction in anorexia, dyslexia, speech disorders, anxiety disorders, etcetera

• fun movement as “medicine”

• her three best tips for living joyfully.

Heart-rending news

Shortly after the recording of this podcast episode, at the end of November 2020, dr. Oleg Efimov died due to Covid-19. Our thoughts are with his wife, Victoria, and all who knew him. We honour his contribution to the improved well-being of children world-wide. May his legacy continue to expand.

In order to learn to read, a child’s brain and body must be ready - reading does not occur naturally! Here Dr. Melodie de Jager makes everything crystal clear.

Melodie discusses the current reality of teachers, specifically those in the foundation phase.

Melodie explains how you can find out if your (or your loved one’s) primary sense is visual, auditory, or kinaesthetic.

You can read “Do you or your child have a sensory integration issue?” here.

Have you heard about Melodie’s weekly blog on pregnancy and birth that combines a gripping story with sound scientific principles?

How do you share your heart - and history - with those you cherish? Melodie illuminates our deep need for human connection.

Lees ‘n Afrikaanse artikel oor Gravity: a missing link in child development wat in LiG verskyn het.

Hier verduidelik Melodie hoekom babas moet kruip voor hulle begin loop.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of the Mind Dynamix “operating manual” for your or your child’s one-of-a-kind brain, you’ll find Melodie’s explanation here.

Contact details

Dr. Melodie de Jager is a developmental specialist from Johannesburg.

https://www.mindmoves.co.za/ - click on Find an instructor if you are looking for guidance

Watch Mariette’s Zoom interview with dr. Melodie de Jager, dr. Oleg Efimov and Victoria Efimova on Gravity: a missing link in child development (recorded in August 2020):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0SgUCs2FMk

Op soek na meer besonderhede oor Melodie se werk? Kry dit hier.

You can subscribe to the podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful here

Music by Mart-Marie Snyman

Image of dr. Melodie de Jager: supplied

Other images: Unsplash

Please note:
These podcasts are intended purely for educational purposes and should never replace professional evaluation or discussion. If you have suicidal thoughts, phone the free SADAG helpline at 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393 (both available 24/7) or contact a qualified medical professional.