HABIT/CIMT

For children with motor difficulties—especially those affecting one side of the body—daily tasks like dressing, playing, or using school tools can be frustrating and limiting. But with the right support, children can build strength, coordination, and confidence. That’s where HABIT and CIMT come in—two powerful therapy approaches offered at Supporting Learning for Children with Needs (SLCN) to help children improve hand and arm function through intensive, goal-driven practice.

What Are HABIT and CIMT?

HABIT (Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy) and CIMT (Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy) are evidence-based therapies designed to improve upper limb function in children with conditions such as:

• Cerebral palsy
• Hemiplegia
• Stroke or brain injury
• Developmental coordination disorder

These therapies focus on repetitive, purposeful movement and are delivered in a fun, engaging way that motivates children to use their affected limbs more effectively.

CIMT: Focused Use of the Affected Arm

CIMT involves restricting the use of the stronger arm (usually with a soft mitt or sling) to encourage the child to use their weaker arm. This helps “wake up” the brain’s motor pathways and build strength, coordination, and confidence in the affected limb.

Key features of CIMT include:

• Intensive practice using the affected arm.
• Task-based activities like grasping, reaching, and manipulating objects.
• Positive reinforcement to build motivation and self-esteem.

HABIT: Coordinated Use of Both Hands

HABIT focuses on bimanual coordination—helping children use both hands together in everyday tasks. This is especially important for activities like tying shoelaces, opening containers, or playing with toys.

Key features of HABIT include:

• High-repetition practice of two-handed tasks.
• Goal-directed activities chosen by the child and family.
• Therapist-guided sessions that build skill and confidence.

At SLCN, therapists may use CIMT, HABIT, or a combination of both depending on your child’s needs and goals.

Why These Therapies Work

Both HABIT and CIMT are grounded in neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections through practice. When children repeatedly use their affected limbs in meaningful ways, their brains adapt, leading to improved movement and function.

Research shows that these therapies can lead to:

• Increased strength and dexterity.
• Improved independence in daily tasks.
• Greater confidence and participation in play and school.

Who Can Benefit?

These programs are ideal for children who:

• Have limited use of one hand or arm due to neurological or developmental conditions.
• Struggle with fine motor tasks like writing, cutting, or buttoning.
• Avoid using their affected limb in play or daily routines.
• Are preparing for school transitions or increased independence.

Therapists at SLCN assess each child’s abilities and tailor the program to their developmental level, interests, and goals.

How the Program Works at SLCN

SLCN’s HABIT/CIMT program is delivered by experienced occupational therapists and physiotherapists who specialize in pediatric motor development. The program typically includes:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

Therapists begin by evaluating your child’s motor skills, strengths, and challenges. This includes:

• Range of motion and muscle tone.
• Hand function and coordination.
• Ability to complete daily tasks.

Together with you and your child, they identify specific goals—such as using both hands to dress, improving grip strength, or participating in play.

2. Customized Therapy Plan

Based on the assessment, therapists design a personalized plan that may include:

• CIMT sessions with gentle constraint of the stronger arm.
• HABIT activities that require coordinated use of both hands.
• Home practice routines to reinforce learning.

Therapy is delivered in a fun, play-based format, using games, crafts, and real-life tasks to keep children engaged.

3. Intensive Practice

Children participate in frequent, focused sessions—often several times a week over a set period. This intensity is key to driving progress.

Activities might include:

• Building with blocks or LEGO.
• Preparing snacks or meals.
• Dressing dolls or manipulating toys.
• Art projects requiring two-handed coordination.

Therapists use positive reinforcement, visual supports, and adaptive tools to help children succeed and stay motivated.

4. Family Involvement

Parents are active partners in the program. You’ll receive:

• Coaching on how to support practice at home.
• Tools to track progress and celebrate success.
• Strategies to encourage use of the affected limb in daily routines.

This ensures that gains made in therapy carry over into everyday life.

5. Progress Monitoring

Therapists regularly assess your child’s progress and adjust the program as needed. You’ll see improvements not just in movement, but in confidence, independence, and participation.

Real-Life Impact

Families who’ve participated in HABIT/CIMT at SLCN often share inspiring stories of growth. One parent said:

"Before therapy, my son avoided using his left hand. Now he’s opening lunchboxes, playing with both hands, and even helping with chores. It’s been amazing to watch his confidence grow."

Another shared:

"The program was fun and engaging. My daughter didn’t even realize she was doing therapy—she just thought she was playing. But the results were incredible."

How to Access the Program

SLCN offers flexible options to suit your family’s needs:

• Clinic-based sessions in Derrimut.
• In-home therapy across Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
• School-based support in collaboration with educators.
• Online consultations for families Australia-wide.

Therapy can be delivered as part of a broader developmental plan or as a focused intervention. SLCN therapists work closely with families to ensure the program fits your child’s schedule and goals.

Why Choose SLCN?

At Supporting Learning for Children with Needs, the team is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. The HABIT/CIMT program reflects SLCN’s commitment to:

• Evidence-based practice grounded in research.
• Personalized care tailored to each child.
• Family partnership every step of the way.
• Real-world impact that goes beyond the therapy room.

Led by Brent Connolly, a paediatric speech pathologist with deep expertise in child development, SLCN brings together professionals from occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, and education to deliver holistic, integrated care.

Ready to Help Your Child Use Both Hands with Confidence?

If you’re interested in the HABIT/CIMT program, SLCN offers free consultations to explore your child’s needs and goals. Visit www.slcn.com.au to learn more or book an appointment.

Empower your child to build strength, coordination, and independence—with HABIT and CIMT at SLCN.