The Brain Development Podcast

Lara and Vicky delve into the often-overlooked impact of mould exposure on children's behaviour, learning, and emotional well-being. They discuss how mould produces mycotoxins that can inflame the nervous system and immune response, leading to a range of symptoms such as increased irritability, mood swings, and cognitive difficulties. The conversation highlights the importance of recognising the signs of mould exposure and its potential to exacerbate existing conditions like ADHD and PANS. Lara shares her personal experiences with mould in her home and its effects on her family, while Vicky provides insights from her clinical practice, emphasising the need for awareness and proactive measures to mitigate exposure.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Impact of Mould on Children: Mould exposure can lead to significant behavioural, emotional, and cognitive issues in children, including increased irritability, mood swings, attention difficulties, and sensory processing problems.

Mycotoxins and Inflammation: Mould produces mycotoxins that inflame the nervous system and immune system, leading to a state of chronic inflammation which can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to developmental regressions.

Nasal Dysbiosis: Mould exposure can cause nasal dysbiosis, which affects airflow and immune function in the nasal cavity, potentially leading to further complications such as poor brain oxygenation and increased susceptibility to infections.

Environmental Awareness: Parents should be vigilant about potential mould exposure in various environments, including homes, schools, and workplaces, and take proactive measures to improve air quality and reduce humidity.

BEST MOMENTS

"Mould produces something called mycotoxins and these are chemicals that inflame the nervous system, the gut, the nasal cavity and the passages and the immune system." - Lara

"If you think about it, that's your filter paper, which is then going into your oral dysbiosis, your gut dysbiosis." - Lara

"What mould does is it suppresses innate immunity, and obviously we know the immune system is a seesaw." - Vicky

"When they do have mould exposure, it’s so much more virulent because the toxicity that is being produced... is causing so much more in terms of symptomology." - Vicky

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠

⁠https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations⁠

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

 Vicky is mum to her remarkable autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology and a deep fascination with the human body, she was originally on track to become an NHS dietitian. When Rose’s needs became more complex, everything changed. Vicky immersed herself in learning about autism, neurodevelopment, and root-cause healing, a compassionate, whole-person approach that simply made more sense. From this journey, The Happy Healthy Unicorn was born, a space grounded in both science and heart, created for families seeking real answers and hope. Rose’s transformation inspired Vicky’s mission to help others. Combining science, lived experience, and deep empathy, she now guides families on their own healing journeys, empowering them to restore balance, support development, and unlock their children’s true potential.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Lara welcomes Vicky Finlayson ,from the Healthy Happy Unicorn, to delve into the significant impact of gluten and dairy on children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and OCD. They discuss the physiological effects of these foods, including gut permeability and immune system dysregulation, and emphasise the importance of dietary changes for healing and symptom reduction. Vicky shares practical strategies for parents to transition their children away from gluten and dairy, addressing common concerns and misconceptions. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of a tailored diet, encouraging parents to focus on whole foods and empowering them to make informed choices for their children's health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Impact of Gluten and Dairy: Gluten and dairy can negatively affect children with neurodevelopmental disorders by triggering gut issues, immune responses, and inflammation, which can lead to symptoms associated with conditions like autism and ADHD.

Gut Health Connection: There is a strong link between gut health and neurodevelopmental disorders. Issues such as leaky gut, caused by gluten and dairy, can lead to toxins entering the bloodstream and triggering immune reactions that may affect brain function.

Individualised Dietary Approaches: Transitioning away from gluten and dairy should be tailored to each child's needs and family circumstances. Strategies can range from a complete removal of these foods to gradual substitutions, depending on the child's adaptability and the family's readiness.

Long-Term Benefits of Dietary Changes: While some parents may not see immediate changes after removing gluten and dairy, it is essential to allow time for the body to heal. Full benefits may take several months as the proteins leave the system and overall health improves.

BEST MOMENTS

"We know that gut issues are rife in the population of children that we see. The two go hand in hand." - Vicky

"Gluten and dairy break down into specific peptides in the body, and they leak through the blood-brain barrier." - Vicky

"If you're listening to this and your child is only eating gluten and dairy, that's very normal." - Lara

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https;//www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠

⁠https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations⁠

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

 Vicky is mum to her remarkable autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology and a deep fascination with the human body, she was originally on track to become an NHS dietitian. When Rose’s needs became more complex, everything changed. Vicky immersed herself in learning about autism, neurodevelopment, and root-cause healing, a compassionate, whole-person approach that simply made more sense. From this journey, The Happy Healthy Unicorn was born, a space grounded in both science and heart, created for families seeking real answers and hope. Rose’s transformation inspired Vicky’s mission to help others. Combining science, lived experience, and deep empathy, she now guides families on their own healing journeys, empowering them to restore balance, support development, and unlock their children’s true potential.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

Lara and Vicky engage with Ellie and Simon as they share Kyler's transformative journey over the past two years. The discussion delves into the challenges faced by Kyler, who exhibited severe behavioural issues and developmental delays before receiving a diagnosis. Ellie and Simon recount their initial despair and the turning point that led them to explore alternative therapies, including dietary changes and working with practitioners like Vicky. They highlight the importance of understanding the underlying health issues affecting Kyler and the empowering journey of healing that has allowed him to thrive. The episode emphasises hope for parents navigating similar challenges, showcasing the potential for positive change through dedicated effort and informed choices.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding the Journey: The journey of supporting a child with autism involves recognising the challenges and seeking help early. Parents shared their initial struggles with their child's behaviour and the emotional toll of receiving a diagnosis.

Importance of Research and Support: Parents emphasised the significance of researching different therapies and connecting with practitioners who offer hope and alternative approaches, such as focusing on primitive reflexes and dietary changes.

Holistic Approach to Healing: A combination of dietary changes, natural therapies, and understanding the child's unique biological needs can lead to significant improvements in behaviour and overall well-being. The parents highlighted the importance of organic food and avoiding toxins.

Empowerment Through Testing: Regular testing and understanding the child's specific health issues, such as inflammation and gut health, were crucial in tailoring a treatment plan that addresses the root causes of their symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

"When I got the diagnosis, I hyperventilated... I was like, oh my goodness, what is his life going to be like?" - Ellie

"No one ever tells you that there's any hope for healing... you just kind of only hear that side of it." - Simon

"I think it's really important that people know that even if your child is only eating three foods a day, there is hope." - Ellie

"I think that while a part of it is them, these children are unwell. And they need help." - Simon

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

 Vicky is mum to her remarkable autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology and a deep fascination with the human body, she was originally on track to become an NHS dietitian. When Rose’s needs became more complex, everything changed. Vicky immersed herself in learning about autism, neurodevelopment, and root-cause healing, a compassionate, whole-person approach that simply made more sense. From this journey, The Happy Healthy Unicorn was born, a space grounded in both science and heart, created for families seeking real answers and hope. Rose’s transformation inspired Vicky’s mission to help others. Combining science, lived experience, and deep empathy, she now guides families on their own healing journeys, empowering them to restore balance, support development, and unlock their children’s true potential.

Lara engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Omer Hirsch, a chiropractor and expert in functional neurology based in Israel. They discuss the various approaches to assessing and treating children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Dr. Hirsch emphasises the importance of understanding the root causes of symptoms and optimising communication between the brain's hemispheres to unlock a child's potential. The episode delves into the assessment process, the significance of foundational brain function, and the integration of the Melillo Method in therapy. Parents are encouraged to adopt practical strategies for incorporating therapeutic exercises into daily routines, highlighting the importance of commitment and consistency in supporting their children's development.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Holistic Assessment Approach: The initial assessment of a child with neurodevelopmental disorders involves a comprehensive understanding of their symptoms through guided questions to parents, followed by a detailed examination of the child's motor, sensory, cognitive, and emotional functions.

Importance of Foundational Brain Function: Effective treatment begins with addressing foundational brain functions, including the integration of primitive reflexes, vestibular system balance, and overall cognitive and motor skills, to optimise the child's potential.

Intensive Therapy Benefits: Intensive therapy sessions, typically lasting one week with multiple daily sessions, can yield significant improvements in a child's function by providing high-frequency stimulation that promotes neuroplasticity, allowing for rapid progress compared to traditional weekly sessions.

BEST MOMENTS

"If we don't fix the brain, the gut is going to get worse again. So we have to kind of make sure the brain is getting better." - Omer

"You need to be a bit obsessive with it, but it's for a period of time. And that's all I used to think." Lara

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk

GUEST BIO

Dr. Omer Hirsch is chiropractor based in Israel studied functional neurology with a fellowship in neuro-developmental disorders from IAFNR, specialising in the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders and learning challenges in children. Driven by a philosophy that true health begins with foundational brain function, Dr. Hirsch’s clinical work focuses on identifying and correcting the root cause of symptoms—a concept often referred to as Functional Disconnection Syndrome or hemispheric imbalance. His expertise centres on optimising the communication and synchronization between the brain’s hemispheres to unlock a child’s true cognitive, emotional, and physical potential.

Dr. Hirsh is a leading practitioner of the Melillo Method, a revolutionary, drug-free approach to neurological rehabilitation. His comprehensive, individualised programs combine targeted motor activities with advanced sensory therapies to stimulate underdeveloped neural pathways. Crucially, Dr. Hirsch utilises specialised techniques in Sound and Vision Therapy, along with precise chiropractic adjustments, to drive neuroplastic change.

HOST BIO

Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

In this episode of the Brain Development Podcast, Lara welcomes Yulli Tamayo-Myerson, a specialist in myofascial release and craniosacral therapy, to discuss the critical role of tongue positioning and breathing in the development of neurodiverse children. Yulli shares her personal journey into this field, sparked by her son's ADHD diagnosis and the discovery of how breathing disorders can impact behaviour and sleep quality. The conversation delves into the importance of proper tongue function for overall health, including its effects on jaw alignment, sleep quality, and even digestive health. Yulli outlines key red flags for parents to look for, such as mouth breathing and grogginess upon waking, and emphasises the significance of early intervention in addressing these issues.

KEYTAKE AWAYS

Understanding Tongue Function: The tongue is a complex organ with multiple muscles that plays a crucial role in various functions such as speech, swallowing, and maintaining proper jaw alignment.

Impact of Breathing Patterns: Mouth breathing and improper tongue posture can lead to a range of behavioural and physical issues, including sleep disorders, ADHD-like symptoms, and poor posture.

Red Flags for Parents: Parents should look for specific signs in their children, such as grogginess upon waking, mouth breathing, snoring, teeth grinding, and forward head posture.

BEST MOMENTS

"When the tongue is not able to perform the job that it is supposed to do... it can actually obstruct the airway partially or completely." - Yulli

"The tongue is a really misunderstood organ... it has a very complex function and together they have to work really hard in synchrony." - Yulli

"You may not run properly. You may end up with injuries as you go through life... because you're not holding yourself in the right way." - Lara

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://www.myofunctionaltherapy.co.uk/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Orofacial-Myofunctional-Therapy-Journey-Discovery-ebook/dp/B0C5XQDY7L

https://www.myofunctionaltherapy.co.uk/product-page/yulli-s-book-paperback-

formathttps://www.instagram.com/myofunctionaltherapy.uk/?hl=en

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

Yulli Tamayo-Myerson is the founder of Myofunctional Therapy UK, bringing over 30 years of multidisciplinary expertise to the field of orofacial myofunctional therapy.

Her extensive background spans eight key disciplines, including:

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy

Buteyko Breathing Education

Dental Hygiene & Therapy

TMJ & Sleep Therapy

This comprehensive training allows her clinic to deliver evidence-based, whole-body care focused on the belief that oral and airway health are essential to lifelong wellness.

She also serves as the volunteer President of the British Society of Myofunctional Therapy (BSMFT), actively advocating for public and professional education on the links between orofacial dysfunction, breathing, and sleep to promote early detection and better patient outcomes.

In this episode of the Brain Development Podcast, Lara welcomes Olivier de Wulf, President and CEO of Neurasonic, to discuss innovative approaches to healing behavioural and learning challenges in neurodiverse children. Olivier, an expert in engineering, neuroscience, and acoustic health, shares insights into how auditory and sensory inputs can influence the nervous system. He explains the dual components of the ear, the vestibular and cochlear systems, and how they relate to communication and emotional regulation. The conversation delves into the impact of trauma on children's development and how Neurasonic's programs, which utilise specially filtered music, can retrain the ears and vagus nerve to restore balance and optimise neurological function. Listeners will learn about the transformative effects of sound therapy on children with learning disabilities, anxiety, and sound sensitivities, as well as Olivier's personal journey with his adopted sons.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neurosonic's Approach: Neurosonic focuses on retraining the ears to improve communication with the world, addressing issues related to the vestibular and cochlear systems of the ear, which are crucial for body awareness and auditory processing.

Targeting the Vagus Nerve: The programs developed at Neurosonic aim to optimise the function of the vagus nerve, which regulates many unconscious bodily functions. Proper functioning of this nerve can alleviate issues related to digestion, anxiety, and sound sensitivities.

Music as Therapy: The therapy involves using filtered Mozart music to create a calming environment that helps retrain the ear muscles and improve auditory processing. This approach has shown significant results in enhancing communication and reducing sound sensitivities.

BEST MOMENTS

"We have developed a way to retrain the ears so that the communication with the world is actually improving." - Olivier

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk

www.neurasonic.com

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

Dr. Olivier De Wulf is a highly specialized expert bridging the fields of engineering, neuroscience, and acoustic health. He currently serves as the President and CEO of NeuraSonic, a startup focused on developing programs to assist with hearing, listening, and trauma integration. With a background rooted in robust academic research, Olivier holds a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Liège (Belgium). He is also a trained Audio-Psycho-Phonologist (APP), demonstrating his commitment to influencing the nervous system through auditory and sensory inputs. His work at NeuraSonic is dedicated to exploring how precise, body-based therapies can restore the body's natural balance and optimize neurological function.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this heartfelt episode of the Brain Development Podcast, Vicky Finlayson shares her deeply personal journey as a mother navigating the complexities of raising her daughter, Rose, who faced numerous challenges including autism, developmental delays, and health issues. Vicky recounts the struggles she encountered during pregnancy, the difficulties in Rose's early development, and the overwhelming feelings of isolation and inadequacy as a parent. Through her story, she highlights the importance of understanding biochemistry, dietary changes, and the impact of early interventions on a child's development. Vicky's transformation from a place of despair to empowerment is inspiring, as she emphasises the hope and potential for every child. The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of both parents and children, and the profound connections that can be formed through shared experiences and healing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Biochemical Influences on Development: The speaker discusses how her own high copper levels and family history of mental health issues impacted her pregnancy and, subsequently, her child's development. This highlights the importance of understanding the biochemical factors that can affect a child's health and behaviour.

Early Signs and Challenges: The journey of parenting a child with developmental delays is shared, emphasising the early signs of struggle, such as not meeting milestones, feeding difficulties, and severe health issues. These experiences resonate with many parents who may feel overwhelmed and alone.

Dietary Interventions: A significant turning point in the child's health came from dietary changes, specifically removing gluten and dairy. This led to noticeable improvements in health, such as reduced infections and better digestion, showcasing the impact of nutrition on developmental outcomes.

BEST MOMENTS

"When I was pregnant, I was completely turned into this psychopath overnight." - Vicky

"I feel like Rose is here for a reason... to shine a light on what can be possible for other people." - Vicky

"I just need people to know that like if they're in this situation that I was in, there's stuff that you can do." - Vicky

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠

⁠https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations⁠

HOST BIO

Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

Lara and Vicky delve into the significance of lab testing in understanding and addressing the behavioural and learning challenges faced by children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. They discuss how environmental factors, such as mould exposure, viruses, and toxins, can impact a child's brain health and behaviour. Vicky shares insights from the Neural Zoomer Plus test, highlighting how antibodies can indicate immune responses affecting brain function. The conversation emphasises the importance of looking beyond diagnoses to uncover underlying issues that can be addressed to improve children's lives. Parents are empowered with knowledge about lab testing as a roadmap for healing, offering hope for significant improvements in their children's behaviour and learning capabilities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Empowerment Through Lab Testing: Lab testing serves as a crucial tool for parents to understand the underlying factors affecting their child's behaviour and learning, providing a roadmap for healing and improvement.

Environmental Factors Impacting Health: Various environmental factors, such as mould exposure, viruses, toxins, and dietary components, can significantly influence a child's neurological and behavioural symptoms, highlighting the need for comprehensive testing.

Neural Zoomer Plus Test Insights: The Neural Zoomer Plus test is particularly valuable for identifying antibodies related to brain inflammation and immune responses, which can help explain behavioural issues and cognitive delays in children.

Autoimmunity and Behavioural Symptoms: Many symptoms associated with diagnoses like autism can be linked to underlying autoimmune responses, where the immune system mistakenly attacks brain proteins, leading to issues such as OCD and tics.

BEST MOMENTS

"Lab testing was like a beacon of light throughout, guiding us where to go next." - Vicky

"When we delve down deeper into the lab work, we see that there are all these imbalances that are making up the symptoms." - Vicky

"Essentially, what we're looking at is the underneath stuff and we're not looking at the top end anyway." - Vicky

"If your immune system is continually attacking areas of their brain, that is obviously very unhelpful from a functionality perspective." - Lara

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

Lara and Vicky discuss the critical connection between immune dysregulation and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. They emphasise the importance of early detection of red flags in children's health, including symptoms like cradle cap, reflux, and chronic infections, which may indicate underlying gut and immune issues. Vicky shares her personal experiences with her daughter, highlighting how these early signs can lead to significant challenges if left unaddressed. The conversation delves into the role of gut health in immune function, the impact of environmental factors, and the importance of addressing these issues to promote better outcomes for children. Lara and Vicky aim to empower parents with knowledge and strategies to support their children's development and well-being.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Many children with diagnoses such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia exhibit underlying immune dysregulation and signs of autoimmune activity, which can significantly impact their development and behaviour.

Early Warning Signs: Symptoms like cradle cap, severe reflux, constipation, and frequent infections can serve as red flags indicating potential gut health issues and immune system problems. Addressing these early can help prevent more severe developmental challenges later on.

Importance of Gut Health: A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for a healthy immune system. Issues such as dysbiosis and leaky gut can lead to chronic health conditions and neuroinflammation, which may manifest as behavioural and learning difficulties.

Role of Primitive Reflexes: Primitive reflexes are essential for proper brain development and motor skills. Delays or difficulties in achieving developmental milestones, such as rolling over or crawling, can indicate underlying issues that may affect a child's overall development.

BEST MOMENTS

"Almost every child we've tested have, with some degree, an underlying immune dysregulation." - Lara

"If your child has cradle cap, you know that there is quite a severe candida issue already from birth." - Vicky

"If your child is sick, ear infections, eye infections, if you've got a child that's either never sick or constantly sick, you know either one of those is not helpful." - Vicky

"The immune system is just left wide open to kind of leave that to take hold even further." - Vicky

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠

Lara engages in a heartfelt conversation with Alison, a retired speech and language therapist with extensive experience working with children facing speech and language difficulties. Alison shares her insights on the unique communication paths of children, emphasizing the importance of empowering parents to foster their child's communication skills through play and interaction. The discussion highlights practical techniques for parents, such as the significance of non-verbal communication, the joy of engaging in simple activities, and the concept of "intensive interaction." Alison also introduces the PALM approach—Pause, Analyse, Listen, Model—as a valuable tool for enhancing communication. Throughout the episode, the emotional connection between parents and children is underscored, reminding listeners that every child has their own unique gifts and that finding joy in the journey is essential for both parents and their children.

Empower Parents: Parents play a crucial role in their child's communication development. They should be encouraged to engage with their children through play and everyday interactions, as they possess the skills needed to support their child's growth.

Focus on Non-Verbal Communication: Communication begins long before children can speak. Non-verbal cues, such as eye contact, turn-taking, and physical interaction, are essential for building a foundation for language development.

Utilise Everyday Opportunities: Parents can create language-rich environments by incorporating everyday activities into learning. Simple actions like picking up objects during a walk can provide opportunities for labeling, counting, and engaging in conversation.

Practice the PALM Technique: The PALM acronym (Pause, Analyse, Listen, Model) encourages parents to slow down and observe their child's communication attempts. This approach helps in understanding the child's needs and modeling appropriate responses.

"It's so important to always work with the carers... the main therapists, the main carers are the people who will see their children develop their communication skills." - Alison

"All behaviours, whether they're seen as negative behaviours... they're all forms of communication." - Alison

"Sometimes we talk too much... we just need to pause sometimes." - Alison

"I can guarantee that they will communicate. And that was a really good starting point." - Alison

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.