From the time of planning for children parents have the duty and joy of guiding their children's lives along the path that will bring about their full potential. Integral to the process of the healthy growth of the whole person is the healthy development of the nervous system and its supporting structures. Not only does the nervous system physically affect or control every cell of the body, it is also the home of our children's growing intellect, emotions and social skills. Nurturing of the nervous system is accomplished through good nutrition, positive stimulation especially touch, and the care of the structures that house and protect it, the skull and the spine. As a child grows, many changes take place in these structures which are essential to optimal nervous system function, but also present certain vulnerabilities to weakened function.
Birth When born, a child's bones are supple.
All bone begin as a thin membrane or a cartilage bone model, which is replaced by harder bone as it grows. This is called ossification. Ossification follows a genetically programmed path, but is also affected by pressure placed on bones by gravity and tension at muscle attachments. During birth, tremendous pressure is placed on the skull and body. The flexibility of this system allows the plates to overlap so the child can pass through the birth canal.