"Everything happens as if human behaviour were largely conditioned by the manner in which one hears.” Bérard
Difficulties with how sound is processed—often subtly—can impact social, emotional, behavioural, and academic performance.
Dr. Guy Bérard, a French ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, pioneered a therapeutic approach known as Bérard Auditory Integration Training (AIT).
Drawing from his clinical experience he observed a compelling link between auditory distortions and a wide range of behavioural and learning challenges.
In just twenty sessions across ten days, Bérard Auditory Integration Training helps retrain the ears and auditory system—supporting more efficient sound processing and paving the way for growth across social, emotional, behavioural, and academic domains.
Following this work, we often find that other support strategies—such as speech therapy, tutoring, or classroom accommodations—become significantly more effective.
For many families, AIT offers a powerful first step in clearing the path for broader progress.
Treating the cause of difficulties is far more effective than treating the symptoms
In order to learn, the brain must receive information, interpret and integrate, store and recall and finally respond accurately. This all takes place through the sensory and motor systems. The development of these systems is dependent on movement.
Nerve cells will not grow, develop connecting branches, mature or become functional without the stimulation of movement.
Specific, organised movements are required to build these neural pathways and these start in utero, forming developmental stages as the reflex system. The reflex system originates in the cerebellum with each reflex having a specific job to do. There are 70 known primary (primitive) reflexes and if they remain retained past their time, they can cause poor eye functioning, weak gross or fine motor skills or emotional immaturity. In addition, the secondary (postural) reflexes which build on the primary movements cannot develop properly.
Reading, writing and arithmetic are not 'the basics' of learning. They are the complex neurological processes than can develop easily when the brain and body are functioning efficiently. The cause of developmental problems often lies in neurological delays. The resultant learning difficulties are only symptoms of the developmental problems.
Investing in healthy brain development isn’t just preventative—it’s transformative. It saves families from the pain of playing catch-up.
Foundations that grow with the child
Play is the language of childhood. It’s how children learn to collaborate, influence their environment, and discover how the world responds to them. When foundational play experiences are missing or fragile, a child’s ability to build critical skills can be affected.
Developmental Play is a new initiative in child development that draws from proven strategies across cognitive, physical, emotional, and social domains. It helps adults create strong, developmentally appropriate foundations through play and movement-based activities that follow the natural trajectory of childhood growth.
A structure built from the ground up each layer builds upon the one beneath it. Sometimes that means returning to earlier stages to reinforce and rebuild. Over time, children thrive with growing confidence, resilience, and a deepening sense of self.
This integrative approach brings together expertise from:
Developmental Play is particularly transformative for children navigating learning difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and emotional challenges. It meets children where they are—honouring their pace and nurturing connection.
Our training gives adults the tools to observe, respond, and co-regulate through joyful, therapeutic play. It’s not only effective—it’s enjoyable. Because at the heart of growth is connection, and play is one of the most powerful ways to build it.

At Mangrove Integrated, we believe resilience grows from the inside out. Through sensory-motor mapping, play-based exploration, and emotionally attuned support, we help children build the inner scaffolding they need to face life’s challenges with confidence and creativity. Our work isn’t about fixing—it’s about nurturing the systems that allow children to bend, stretch, and root themselves deeply in who they are.
Connect to find out more about these sessions.