Core Principles:

• Targeting Specific Neural Circuits: Functional neurology aims to identify and target the specific brain regions and neural pathways involved in reaction time (e.g., sensory processing areas, motor cortex, cerebellum) and impulse control (e.g., prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia).
• Leveraging Neuroplasticity: These protocols are designed to stimulate neuroplastic changes in these circuits through targeted and repetitive exercises.
• Sensory-Motor Integration: Reaction time and impulse control are inherently linked to how the brain processes sensory information and translates it into motor responses. Protocols often emphasise the integration of these processes.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Real-time feedback, such as that provided by lasers and touchscreens, is crucial for learning and error correction, allowing the brain to refine its responses.
• Developmental Appropriateness: For developing minds, protocols must be age-appropriate, engaging, and consider the ongoing maturation of the brain.

Components of Protocols

1. Reaction Time Training:

Visual Reaction Time Tasks (Touchscreen), Auditory Reaction Time Tasks (Touchscreen/External Stimuli),  Laser-Based Reaction Time, Motor Reaction Time, 

2. Impulse Control Training:

Go/No-Go Tasks (Touchscreen with Feedback), Delay Discounting Tasks (Touchscreen), Stop-Signal Tasks (Touchscreen):, Working Memory Tasks with Interference Control (Touchscreen), Laser-Guided Inhibition, 

Functional Neurology and Melillo Method Considerations:

• Hemispheric Specificity: Tasks might be designed to preferentially engage one hemisphere over the other, based on assessment findings. For example, visual tasks in the left visual field primarily stimulate the right hemisphere.  
   
• Cerebellar Involvement: Exercises that challenge timing, coordination, and motor learning can be incorporated, as the cerebellum plays a role in both reaction time and the fine-tuning of motor responses necessary for impulse control. Laser tracking tasks are particularly relevant here.
• Brain Stem Integration: Foundational sensory processing through the brain stem is crucial. Protocols might include activities that integrate vestibular and proprioceptive input alongside reaction time and impulse control tasks.
• Nutritional and Environmental Considerations: The Melillo Method often emphasizes the importance of diet and environment in supporting brain function, which would be considered alongside these targeted exercises.  
   

Developing Minds Considerations:

• Gamification: Turning exercises into engaging games on the touchscreen can enhance motivation and compliance in children.
• Age-Appropriate Design: Tasks should be tailored to the child's developmental level and cognitive abilities.  
   
• Positive Reinforcement: Providing clear and positive feedback is essential for learning.
• Gradual Progression: Difficulty should be increased incrementally as the child demonstrates improvement.