Core Principles:

• Identifying Functional Brain Imbalances: The Melillo Method emphasises that cognitive difficulties often arise from imbalances in the function and communication between different brain regions, particularly the two hemispheres. Comprehensive assessment is crucial to identify these areas of relative weakness or overactivity in cognitive processing.
• Targeted Stimulation for Neuroplasticity: Based on the assessment, specific cognitive exercises are prescribed to stimulate underactive brain regions and strengthen the neural pathways involved in various cognitive functions. This leverages the brain's inherent ability to change and adapt (neuroplasticity).
• Developmental Perspective: Protocols consider the typical developmental trajectory of cognitive skills. Activities may be designed to build upon foundational cognitive abilities and address specific developmental delays.
• Hemispheric Specialization and Integration: The Melillo Method strongly focuses on the distinct roles of the left and right hemispheres in cognitive functions (e.g., language processing in the left, spatial reasoning in the right) and the importance of their integrated function. Exercises often aim to strengthen both individual hemispheric skills and interhemispheric communication.
• Multi-Sensory Integration: Cognitive processes are often enhanced by involving multiple sensory modalities. Protocols may integrate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic input to support learning and memory.

Components of Cognitive Skills Protocols (Melillo Method Inspired):

These protocols are highly individualised but often include a combination of the following types of exercises:

1. Attention and Focus Training: Sustained Attention Tasks, Selective Attention Tasks, Alternating Attention Tasks,  Divided Attention Tasks.

2. Memory Enhancement: Working Memory Tasks, Short-Term Memory Tasks, Long-Term Memory Strategies.

3. Language and Communication Skills: Receptive Language Activities, Expressive Language Activities, Phonological Awareness Activities.

4. Visual-Spatial Skills: Spatial Reasoning Tasks, Visual Perception Exercises, Motor Planning and Sequencing.

5. Executive Functions Training: Planning and Organisation Tasks, Problem-Solving Activities, Cognitive Flexibility Tasks, Inhibitory Control Exercises.

Implementation within the Melillo Method:

• Comprehensive Neurological Assessment: This is the foundation for identifying specific cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as underlying functional brain imbalances.
• Individualised Program Design: Cognitive exercises are carefully selected and tailored to address the identified imbalances and target specific cognitive skills.
• Hemispheric Emphasis: Exercises may be chosen to preferentially stimulate the weaker hemisphere or to improve interhemispheric communication for specific cognitive tasks.
• Integration with Other Modalities: Cognitive protocols are often combined with sensory-motor activities, reflex integration exercises, and nutritional support as part of a holistic intervention plan.
• Progressive Challenges: The difficulty of cognitive tasks is gradually increased as the individual demonstrates improvement.

Developing Minds Considerations:

• Age-Appropriateness: Cognitive tasks are carefully selected to match the child's developmental stage and cognitive abilities.
• Gamification and Engagement: Making cognitive exercises fun and engaging through games and interactive activities is crucial for motivation.
• Positive Reinforcement: Providing encouragement and positive feedback is essential for building confidence and promoting effort.
• Parental Involvement: Educating and involving parents in the home-based activities is a key aspect of the Melillo Method approach for developing minds.

By implementing carefully designed cognitive skills protocols within the framework of functional neurology and the Melillo Method, the aim is to address the neurological underpinnings of cognitive challenges, leading to improvements in attention, memory, language, visual-spatial abilities, executive functions, and overall academic and daily life functioning for developing minds.