TrinitasChildren's Therapy Services
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Interactive Metronome (IM)
What Is IM?
The Interactive Metronome® (IM) is the only research-based training program
that combines the concept of a musical metronome with a patented technology
system that accurately measures and improves a person's rhythm and timing.
By improving these fundamental abilities, the lM program "trains the brain"
to plan, sequence and process information more effectively.
How Does IM Work?
Administered through certified professionals, the IM program typically
involves 15 sessions that can be completed in 3-5 weeks. Thirteen different
hand and foot exercises are performed while auditory guide tones direct the
individual to match the metronome beat. The difference between the
individual's response and the computer generated beat is measured in
milliseconds (ins.) and a score is provided. A low ins. score indicates
improved timing and overall performance. This interactive training process
provides an opportunity to exercise and build the core mental skills
essential for learning and development.
Benefits
Over a decade of clinical research on IM demonstrates gains in motor
planning, sequencing and timing lead to improvements in:
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Focus & Attention |
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Control of Aggression & Impulsivity |
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Coordination |
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Language Processing |
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Academic Performance |
Who Can Benefit?
Motor planning and sequencing problems have been linked to various developmental, behavioral, and learning challenges. Individuals who experience difficulties with motor planning, sequencing and timing may include those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism, speech and language delays, motor and sensory disorders, and a range of other conditions.
Research
ADHD Study
A double-blind, placebo controlled study of 9 to 12 year old boys diagnosed with ADHD, found those who completed the IM program showed significant patterns of improvement in attention, coordination, control of aggression/impulsivity, reading and language processing. This study was published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, March 2001.
Motor Control Study
A comparison of IM trained special education students to a control group found the IM group improved significantly in both motor control and motor coordination as measured by independent tests (Bruininks-Oseretsky and SIFT Motor Accuracy).
Academic Correlation Study
A correlation analysis of five data sets from lM studies including kindergarten and elementary students, ADHD boys, special education students and high school dropouts validates significant relationships between IM performance and the following abilities: reading, mathematics, oral/written language, writing, attention and coordination.
Testimonials
"Attention, learning and problem solving depend in part on the ability to plan and sequence actions and ideas. The Interactive Metronome helps individuals systematically exercise and often improve basic motor planning and sequencing capacities."
--Stanley I. Greenspan, MD, leading child psychiatrist, author of Building Healthy Minds and Chairman of IM Scientific Advisory Board.
"The Interactive Metronome is spectacularly helpful. It is one of the most promising developments with non-medication of ADHD that's come along in a long while... This is really solid, extremely helpful non-medication (intervention) not only for ADHD but for mental functioning in general."
--Edward HallowelI, MD, leading clinician and speaker on ADHD and author of Driven to Distraction.
"He's talking more, volunteering more comments, and able to process what other people are saying better. Andrew also developed more muscle control and is not as clumsy. It's been a tremendous change."
--V.T., Parent
"Battling ADHU, Eric had a terrible time with his classes. But after slipping on the headphones and learning to synchronize his hands, something subtle happened in his brain. His ability to focus grew, his attitude improved and his IC actually went up 20 points."
--F.B., Parent
About Interactive Metronome, Inc.
Interactive Metronome, Inc. was founded in the early 1990's. After nearly a decade of research, the patented IM program was introduced for the first time in 1999 to qualified professionals. These providers offer the lM program, designed to benefit cognitive, behavioral and physical performance in healthcare settings.
In 2001, a new training protocol was developed for academic and athletic performance applications. Leading schools, universities and professional athletes from the NFL, NBA. NHL and PGA are now using the IM program and seeing impressive results.
Today, there are 1,500+ certified IM providers in over 1,000 clinics, hospitals and school systems throughout the United States and Canada that offer the IM program.
The company has received broad media coverage including the CBS Early Show, CNN News, US News and World Report, as well as various segments aired on hundreds of TV affiliates, radio stations and national publications.
For more information, visit www.interactivemetronome.com.
