R301:
Brain & Body: Beyond Basics

R301: Brain & Body: Beyond Basics explores essential concepts for anyone working with children in sports or academic settings, moving beyond simple drills and games to provide a deeper understanding of how children learn and develop. Ideal for preschool, recreational, developmental, and team coaches, as well as directors and owners, the course blends limited hands-on activities with in-depth lecture and discussion. It examines early childhood development from birth to age five, including stages of self-perception, levels of thought, learning styles, and how these factors influence behavior, along with practical guidance on adapting lesson plans to each stage of development.

The course delves into motor learning, motor development, and the theory of muscle memory, highlighting the connection between movement, cognitive growth, and scholastic achievement. Topics include sensory integration, motor programming, neural pathway development, avoiding training interference, lifespan motor development, and progressional training. It addresses strategies for working with children with special needs, including autism spectrum disorders, brain injuries, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, dystonia, and seizure disorders, offering practical class management techniques and activity adaptations to create safe, inclusive, and successful movement experiences.

This course will be scheduled for 5-6 hours. Participants are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow adequate time for check-in. Please wear comfortable clothing appropriate for active participation.

Minors registering for the course must be logged in to their own profile, not their parent/guardian profile, to receive credit for the course. View page 2 of the Parent How-To Guide for further information.

To print course certificates, individuals must have an active USA Gymnastics membership (Recreational Coach, Competitive Coach, Judge, Owner/Managing Director, or Athlete).