What Is DMI and How Can It Help My Child?

If your child has motor delays or a neurological condition, you may have heard about DMI — Dynamic Movement Intervention. But what exactly is it, and how can it support your child’s development?

What is DMI?

DMI is a therapeutic technique designed to help children with motor delays gain new skills and strengthen existing ones. It uses carefully chosen exercises that challenge a child to move against gravity, build postural control, and create stronger connections in the brain through neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to rewire and learn new patterns).

Who Benefits From DMI?

DMI can be helpful for infants and children with a wide range of diagnoses, including:

• Developmental delays

• Cerebral palsy

• Down syndrome

• Hypotonia (low muscle tone)

• Genetic syndromes

• Brain injuries

• Motor delays with no clear diagnosis

Even children without a specific diagnosis but who are behind on motor milestones can benefit from DMI.

How Does DMI Work?

During a DMI session, the therapist guides the child through exercises that gradually increase in difficulty. These activities may include rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, or walking — depending on your child’s current abilities. The key principles are:

• Challenging but achievable movement: Your child is supported just enough to succeed.

• Repetition: Frequent practice strengthens brain and muscle connections.

• Gravity: Activities often involve working against gravity to build strength and coordination.

• Progressive support: Over time, less assistance is given so your child learns independence.

Why Families Choose DMI

Parents often notice improvements in their child’s strength, balance, and overall confidence. Because DMI is play-based and engaging, children are usually motivated to participate — which helps with faster progress.

What to Expect From a Session

A DMI session is active, hands-on, and tailored to your child’s unique needs. The therapist will guide your child through a series of structured activities, celebrating small victories along the way. Parents are encouraged to observe and sometimes participate so they can continue supporting their child at home.

The Takeaway

DMI is a powerful therapy approach that helps children develop the building blocks for movement and independence. By focusing on neuroplasticity, strength, and motor learning, it offers children the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

✨ If you think DMI could benefit your child, I’d love to help.