First-Step Method: a revolutionary approach to understanding and enhancing infant development

Meet new EASPD members First-Step and learn more about how they work to make sure every child can achieve their full potential.

In a world where every child deserves the chance to thrive, the First-Step Method stands out as a revolutionary approach to understanding and enhancing infant development. By recognising the deep connections between early developmental stages and later challenges, First-Step offers families a pathway to nurture their children's potential, regardless of their starting point.

Our extensive experience has shown us that even those with injuries, genetic syndromes, or developmental disorders can forge new learning pathways and achieve remarkable growth. The First-Step Method for Child Development is a unique approach to development for children with special needs, under that umbrella definition, we address a broad spectrum of disorders, including:

genetic syndromes
brain injuries
autism and communication disorders
motor delays
low muscle tone
epilepsy
ADHD.

Based on the Feldenkrais method, we believe that every child has the ability to achieve their full potential. Every milestone is a unique opportunity to learn. Going back to being a baby- and creating relearning opportunities for upgraded development. Allowing the child to improve and be more functional in daily activities.

Empowering Families

One of the core beliefs of the First-Step Method is the importance of collaboration between parents and therapists. We know that parents are the most important advocates for their child’s growth. That’s why our approach is all about partnership. We don’t just focus on therapy sessions, we work with families to provide the tools, knowledge, and support they need to become active participants in their child’s development. Every factor that influences the child’s development is carefully examined and integrated into their therapy plan.

By focusing on all these areas, we aim to help the child make faster, more meaningful progress in a nurturing environment. The programme takes place at home, merges into the families’ everyday routines, and always asks how we can adapt the physical and social environment of the child to support their learning.

We also understand that every family’s journey is different. That’s why we offer a variety of services to meet the child's, including:

Assessments for Special Needs Children: Tailored evaluations to identify strengths and areas for growth
Home Therapy with Assigned Therapist: Personalised support in the comfort of your home.
Rehabilitation for Premature Infants: Specialised treatment to address unique challenges.
Community Support: A network of families and professionals to share experiences and strategies.
Online Sessions and Advice: Flexible support for families

Real Stories, Real Impact

One of the most inspiring aspects of the First-Step Method is the incredible stories of children who’ve made breakthroughs in their development. Take Sarah Behadini, for example, diagnosed with Genetic Encephalopathy, and doctors told her that she may never walk.

“First-Step helped me accomplish the incredible: learning to walk and many other common life tasks. Doctors in Switzerland said I might never walk, but with First-Step’s support, I was able to take on this challenge. It has been a journey filled with intense emotions, happiness, and gratitude. I have also met wonderful people who have supported me along the way. Thank you, First-Step, for making this dream come true and giving me this new freedom.”

Special Needs Family Camps

Led by First Step therapists and its founder, these week-long intensive sessions focus on practical techniques, fostering growth in a nurturing environment, designed to bring families together, offering practical tools, training and support for development. The camps provide a safe space where families can share their experiences and learn from each other in different locations worldwide. Find out more.

Discover how they work to make a significant impact on the development of children with special needs: https://firststepmethod.com/special-needs/;