What is DMI Therapy?

Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is a therapy approach designed to help children improve their gross motor skills, balance, and overall movement abilities. It uses guided, purposeful movements to help a child’s brain and body build new connections and develop stronger motor patterns.

DMI therapy encourages active participation, targeting postural control, balance, and functional movement through specific exercises and positions. It’s suitable for babies and children with motor delays or neurological challenges.

Who Can Benefit from DMI Therapy?

Who Can Benefit from DMI Therapy?

DMI can help children with a wide range of diagnoses and developmental needs, including:

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Genetic conditions
  • Global developmental delay
  • Hypotonia (low muscle tone) or hypertonia (high muscle tone)
  • Developmental coordination difficulties
  • Delayed motor milestones
  • Neurological conditions affecting movement

If you’re unsure whether DMI would suit your child, I’m happy to chat with you and discuss your child’s individual needs.

How Does DMI Therapy Work?

How Does DMI Therapy Work?

DMI therapy uses specific movement patterns and exercises that encourage a child’s brain to develop better motor control. Each session involves:

  • Gentle, hands-on guidance through targeted movements
  • Positions designed to trigger automatic responses (such as balance and protective reactions)
  • Repeated practice to build stronger movement pathways
  • Fun, engaging activities to motivate your child

Over time, these activities can help improve balance, coordination, and overall mobility.

Benefits of DMI Therapy

Benefits of DMI Therapy

Many families notice positive changes in their child’s abilities, including:

  • Improved postural control and head/trunk stability
  • Better balance and coordination
  • Progress with crawling, standing, walking, and other motor milestones
  • Increased confidence in movement and play
  • Enhanced independence in daily activities

Meet Your Therapist –

Dr Julie Ellwood

Meet Your Therapist – Julie Ellwood

As a qualified DMI practitioner, I am passionate about helping children achieve their fullest potential through movement. With years of experience working with children with a variety of motor needs, I am excited to now offer DMI therapy alongside my other services at the clinic.

I am committed to providing a nurturing, supportive environment where every child can thrive.

What to Expect During a Session

What to Expect During a Session

  • Length: Sessions typically last around 60 minutes.
  • Activities: Your child will take part in guided, playful activities that are carefully selected for their needs.
  • Environment: Sessions are designed to be fun and encouraging, with a focus on safety and comfort.
  • Parent Involvement: I will explain the goals of each session and provide guidance on supporting your child’s progress at home.

Ready to Learn More or Book a Session?

Ready to Learn More or Book a Session?

If you’d like to learn more about how DMI could help your child, or you’re ready to book an initial assessment, please get in touch or book now.