Conductive Education

What is Conductive Education?

Conductive Education (CE) is an educational system designed to teach children with motor disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, to function independently and self-sufficiently. The focus of CE is on the total development of the child with particular attention on the integration and development of motor, intellectual, and social skills. CE approaches physical disabilities from an educational rather than medical perspective.

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Specific motor development occurs through activities which are more than mechanical exercises. Participating in an activity can serve as a model for problem solving and can help the child become an independent learner. The dysfunctional elements of disabilities are approached as learning problems.

CE usually takes place in a classroom setting with a small group of children and one or more teachers and assistants. The group is led through tasks designed to break down movement into simple segments. The child is urged to initiate each movement at a slow tempo receiving assistance as needed.

Through repetitive tasks, using the rhythm of music, "rhythmic intention," the injured brain can frequently find alternative pathways to send messages to the muscle groups to create the desired movements.

A typical day of CE will include stretching the arms and legs; practice standing upright and stepping holding on to a ladder; sitting at a table, maintaining balance and correct posture; a series of exercises lying on the table to increase strength and range of motion; and individualized tasks designed to reach specific goals. For example, practice drinking from a cup or using a spoon and fork, using the bathroom, dressing, improving fine or gross manipulation abilities, etc

Who Teaches CE?

The Conductive Education Teacher has four or more years of intensive training working with children and adults with motor and learning disabilities. Many of the conductors are educated in Budapest, Hungary where CE was developed more than 50 years ago. A conductor has the equivalent of a degree in Special Education for the Motor Disabled.

Currently, there is a Conductive Education Teacher Program at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Who May Benefit?

Children from 2 to 18 years old with motor disabilities.

What is the Program Format?

The format is flexible and designed to meet the individual needs of children and their parents. With fewer than six children in each group, each receives individual attention and constant supervision.

What are the Results?

Conductive Education is not a cure for Cerebral Palsy or other disabilities. Our methods are aimed at helping children make improvements in their day-to-day lives. CE teaches children to do more for themselves. Some children may acquire skills like rolling, crawling, sitting, standing and walking with or without assistance. All children will experience muscle strengthening and flexibility. Most importantly, CE enables children to achieve a higher level of self-reliance and self-esteem.

CE offers a positive experience for children and families.

2005 Individual Achievements Association Program Evaluation