The Castagnini Method, designed and developed by Dr. Mario Castagnini, is the primary intervention protocol we implement with all children and adolescents affected by neurodevelopmental disorders.
This method is rooted in two key principles: • The theory of cognitive modifiability, which asserts that every individual can be modified if appropriately stimulated, regardless of age or genetic predisposition. • The understanding that learning and behavior are intrinsically connected to movement, with each influencing the other.
The intervention protocol consists of four specific exercises based on the seven cognitive functions essential for the holistic and autonomous development of all individuals: • Memory • Attention • Language • Motor planning • Object perception • Spatio-temporal perception • Executive functions By retracing the fundamental developmental milestones—regardless of age or diagnosed pathology—this method employs what are known as“Positioning Holds,” “Tram March,” “Awareness Holds,” and others to stimulate:
▫️ Attention
▫️Self confidence
▫️Self-assurance
▫️Healthy social relationships
▫️Perseverance
▫️Competence
▫️Behavioral and strategic flexibility
These four exercises aim to break the dysfunctional cognitive patterns children may have developed since birth—patterns that hinder their social, emotional, motor, and behavioral growth. Examples include: • Inability to make eye contact • Inability to use hands effectively • Egocentrism • Difficulty solving problems • Stereotypies
The Castagnini Method is taught by certified therapists to parents, who are then responsible for ensuring their child completes all four exercises daily, four times a day, for a period of three months in most cases. Parents are instructed not to alter, modify, or personalize the program in any way.
This consistency and frequency, combined with the quality of the protocol, are what maximize the child’s recovery potential.
The method is based on four fundamental and inseparable principles that must be adhered to during the exercises:
- A defined order
- Exercises performed in an orderly manner
- A sustained frequency of four times daily
- Positive reinforcement of results
This highly effective program operates within the framework of what is known in developmental pedagogy as Gentle Firmness—a relational approach that is firm yet entirely positive. positivo It is crucial to emphasize that this approach has no connection whatsoever with violent or punitive methods.
Allpublications by Dr. Mario Castagnini can be ordered by contacting the Associazione Arc I nostri figli Onlus.
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