In this enlightening episode of the Able to Care podcast, I’m joined by Lara Barnes—a functional neurology specialist and passionate parent—who shares her remarkable journey into brain development, sensory processing, and retained reflexes. We explore how these often-overlooked factors can profoundly influence a child’s behaviour, focus, speech, and learning.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver supporting a neurodiverse child or simply curious about alternative approaches to child development, this episode is packed with insight. Lara’s perspective combines personal experience, evidence-based strategies, and deeply compassionate care.
This is a free resource from the Able to Care podcast, created to be both accessible and practical for those supporting children and young people.
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🛠️ Resources Mentioned
Lara’s website: https://braindevelopment.co.uk
Reflex-focused workshops and support: https://braindevelopment.co.uk/events
Disconnected Kids by Dr Robert Melillo – the book that inspired Lara’s journey
Lara's training: Certified in Dr Melillo’s Brain Balance Program
💡 Three Key Takeaways
Retained reflexes can explain challenges in learning, speech, and behaviour – addressing these root causes can shift a child’s trajectory.
Neuroplasticity is real and hopeful – the brain develops until around age 20, so early intervention isn’t the only option.
Small, sensory-based exercises at home can make huge differences – you don’t need to be a specialist to support your child’s brain growth.
⏱️ Chapter Timestamps
00:03:00 – What are primitive reflexes and why they matter beyond babyhood
00:10:00 – Lara’s personal story: helping her son with retained reflexes
00:20:00 – The building blocks of the brain: grey matter, white matter and roadmaps
00:28:00 – How to identify signs your child might have retained reflexes
00:37:00 – Real-life success stories from Lara’s clinic
00:46:00 – Supporting your child: practical tips and parent encouragement
00:54:00 – Final reflections: What every caregiver should know
🎯 Why Listen to This Episode?
If your child struggles with speech, behaviour, or focus—and you’ve been told to "wait and see"—this episode will offer a fresh perspective and tangible hope. Lara’s approach is especially valuable for parents navigating neurodiversity, educators trying to better understand behaviour in the classroom, and carers seeking new ways to empower the young people they support.
You’ll walk away with new tools, renewed belief, and a powerful reminder: every behaviour has a root cause—and you can help change the outcome.
🔗 Stay Connected
📲 Instagram: @AbleTraining
📲 LinkedIn: Able Training
📲 TikTok: @AbleToCarePodcast
🌐 Website: AbleHub.uk
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