The Integrated Listening System (iLs) was founded in Denver, Colorado in 2007. It is an extension of the work developed by Dr Alfred Tomatis and his electronic ear. Since 2007 it has grown to over 10,000 professionals using it worldwide in varying disciplines across more than 30 countries.
The goal of iLs is to use music, movement and language exercise to improve brain function, with studies showing clinical results of consistently better learning, attention, behaviour and performance in individuals as a result of the therapy, due to improved integration of sensory input.
iLs helps improve brain organisation and function in people of all ages.
the ils method is based on the science of neuroplasticity and the BRAIN'S ability to grow, change and create new pathways in response to stimulation and input. If you control the stimulation and input that the brain is getting you can control the changes observed in the brain. Neuroplasticity is the reason why ils is a multisensory approach that involves SIMULTANEOUS and REPETITIVE stimulation of all the senses.
An individuals ability to accept new learning is influenced by their physiological or emotional state therefore the initial stage of iLs aims to address this by offering the necessary tools to help with state regulation and body organisation. When the body is self regulated and in a state of “calm” rather than on high alert (fight or flight response is often highly activated in children with anxiety and learning difficulties) the foundation for higher cognitive functions such as learning, reading, processing, and memory etc. are able to take place more easily and effectively.
people learn better when they feel safe and calm.
The way iLs is designed the central nervous system is activated through the vagus nerve which helps with self regulation. It dampens down flight or fight responses in individuals whose default setting is to be hyper alert and hyper vigilant to danger. We work on making children feel safe so that they are then capable of using their energy in other areas, such as learning, rather than surviving (in what they perceive to be an unsafe or scary environment). Once this system is under control then proper learning can take place.
