Implications of Cognitive and Motor Interactions for Intervention

Presented by Stacey Dusing

12-Month Subscription

Unlimited access to:

  • Thousands of CE Courses
  • Patient Education
  • Home Exercise Program
  • And more
A large body of evidence suggests a tight coupling between motor and cognitive development. Yet physical therapy education often focuses only on motor development. This course will demonstrate the relationship between motor and cognitive skills in the first year of life and will introduce intervention strategies that can be used with infants and young children to enhance the integrated development of motor and cognitive skills. The application of theory to clinical examples will enhance learners’ ability to support motor and cognitive development.

Meet your instructor

Stacey Dusing

Dr. Dusing is a board certified pediatric physical therapy specialist with over 15 years of clinical and research experience with infants and children. Dr. Dusing is currently associate professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Virginia Commonwealth University where she directs the Motor Development Laboratory. Her…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

Perception Action Theory and the Role of Experience in Learning

1. Perception Action Theory and the Role of Experience in Learning

This chapter will introduce the learner to the perception action theory. Experience interacting with the environment, caregivers, and peers during development and their influence on perception and action will be highlighted.

The Coupling of Motor and Cognitive Development

2. The Coupling of Motor and Cognitive Development

This chapter will highlight some of the evidence for the coupling of cognitive and motor skills in the first years of life.

Measuring Cognitive Development During Motor Play

3. Measuring Cognitive Development During Motor Play

This chapter will introduce some concepts for physical therapists to consider in the measurement of cognition and motor skills.

Intervention Strategies to Support Motor and Cognitive Development

4. Intervention Strategies to Support Motor and Cognitive Development

This chapter will provide evidence for interventions provided by physical therapists that advance both motor and cognitive skills.