Interactive Metronome
What is
Interactive Metronome and what areas can it help?
Interactive Metronome is a computer-based technology to
enhance motor planning, sequencing and timing. It can improve learning and a
variety of types of performance that depend on the ability to plan and sequence
actions and ideas. Interactive Metronome (IM) exercises have been found to
improve motor planning and coordination in both children and adults in academic
and sports endeavors. In addition, IM
performance correlates with academic achievement in areas such as mathematics,
language, reading and attention to task.
Why does Interactive Metronome Work?
In a recent clinical study, the rhythmic and movement
training exercises of the Interactive Metronome were found to produce
significant gains in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD) in the areas of concentration, motor planning, control of aggression,
language processing and reading. These findings are consistent with recent
research on the growth of the brain that indicates that environmental
influences, not just genetics can facilitate a child’s development. Unlike many
of the products on the market that claim to help ADHD without the use of
medication, the Interactive Metronome has independent, third party verification
to back up its claim. Third party verification is a crucial test for consumer
health products.
What does therapy look like?
The Interactive Metronome involves the principles of
the traditional, musical metronome, combined with the precision of a personal
computer to create engaging interactive training exercises. The minimum 15-hour
program uses head phones along with hand and foot sensors to coordinate
movements to computer-generated musical beats. Like training wheels on a
bicycle, a patented auditory guidance system progressively challenges
participants to improve their motor planning, sequencing and rhythmic timing
performance.
The
Interactive Metronome works best when it is a part of a comprehensive program
that may include the following components.
1.
A comprehensive
evaluation and, if needed, an appropriate intervention program recommended by
Sensory Systems Clinic
2.
A home program
recommended by Sensory Systems Clinic.
When
the Interactive Metronome exercises are combined with appropriate
interventions, if needed, the child has an opportunity to exercise a number of
important developmental capacities at the same time in an integrated manner.
A free screening is available
at the clinic for the Interactive Metronome only for ages 6 – adult.
Note: More information on Interactive Metronome can be found on their web site, at:
http:// www.interactivemetronome.com
Reference:
Effect of Interactive
Metronome Rhythmicity Training on Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder, Robert J. Shaffer, Ph.D.., Lee E. Jacokes, Ph.D., James F. Cassily,
Stanley I. Greenspan, M.D., Robert F. Tuchman, M.D., Paul J. Stimmer, Jr.,
Ph.D.; American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 55, 155-162 (2001).
Sensory Systems Clinic, P.C.
30801 Jefferson Ave.
St. Clair Shores,
MI 48082
Phone:
(586) 293-7553