The benefits of brain mapping for your child

Here’s how brain mapping can unlock your child’s potential, and help with overcoming developmental, neurological or mental health challenges, including learning and behavioural difficulties including ADHD. Developmental or neurological challenges are hard, and parents can often feel in the dark. But, with science and technology changing at such a rapid pace, it’s now possible to tackle some of these issues more directly, by removing some of the guesswork. IFN Singapore – a therapeutic neuroplasticity centre in Dempsey Hill – is at the forefront of this.

As an affiliate of the Institute of Functional Neuroscience in Perth, Australia, IFN Singapore uses the latest in neuroplasticity research and brain-imaging technology to drive positive results in adults and children with a range of neurological, mental health and developmental conditions, as well as anyone who wants to enhance their brain performance.

Common conditions children come to IFN Singapore with include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory issues, behavioural challenges, learning difficulties and anxiety. However, you don’t have to have a name for what your child is experiencing. IFN Singapore looks beyond the “labels,” directly at brain function, to see what’s actually driving those symptoms.

What is neuroplasticity and why is it important?

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s amazing potential to be rewired; meaning, if someone’s brain isn’t performing the way it should, it doesn’t necessarily have to stay that way. There is much more potential for positive change in the brain than previously believed, and the impact can be significant.

How does IFN Singapore know what’s driving behaviours and symptoms?

Brain mapping is used to identify the areas of dysfunction in the brain that are causing certain symptoms and behaviours, so that they can be tackled directly.

A simplified comparison to brain mapping is x-raying a broken arm; you wouldn’t try to fix the arm without an x-ray because you wouldn’t have all the information you need. There is a significant sense of relief a parent can feel by having tangible insights as to what may be driving their child’s developmental difference or behaviours.

How can positive changes in the brain be driven?

Neurons (cells that communicate with other cells) in the brain connect via pathways. Pathways can be strengthened, and new ones created altogether, if stimulated correctly. Equally, pathways can weaken or be broken down over time if they are not stimulated. With this understanding, it’s possible to “rewire” specific areas of the brain by stimulating certain areas and avoiding others, based on the individual’s unique brain function. This is done using a variety of safe, non-invasive and medication-free methods, based on years of research and clinical evidence. For example, methods may include a combination of physical stimulation, breathwork, light therapy and audio stimulation.

Here’s an example of how brain mapping and therapeutic neuroplasticity improved the life of a child with ADHD:

A patient in his early teens was displaying symptoms of poor concentration, attention span and memory. He complained of low energy despite being active, and had difficulty getting to sleep.

The initial brain scan showed several areas of his brain with reduced function, contributing to his symptoms. Over the course of six months, the programme was targeted at normalising these dysfunctional areas.

Since starting the programme, the patient has experienced improved focus and memory, increased energy levels and better sleep. He feels more confident in school and is excelling in areas that were once weak points

To learn more, call 6750 4460, email info@ifnsingapore.com or visit ifnsingapore.com.

This article first appeared in the January 2020 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy

Amy Greenburg

Originally from Los Angeles, Amy is passionate about Netflix, sipping rosé at rooftop bars, travelling, and all things health and wellness-related. She enjoys learning about different health topics through her writing, particularly critical health conditions, food allergies, alternative therapies, and pregnancy and postpartum-related issues