Footprints CEC - And Their Take on the Importance of Conductive Education for SEN Children

At Moti Me, we’re always exploring approaches that genuinely support children with Cerebral Palsy, developmental delay, motor challenges and other neurodisabilities. One that consistently stands out is Conductive Education (CE).

We’re delighted to share more about it in collaboration with the wonderful team at Footprints Conductive Education Centre.

We’re also honoured to include a personal story from Erika, Head of Service at Footprints CEC, shared exactly as she wrote it.

So… What Is Conductive Education? (The Simple Version)

Conductive Education can sound technical, but at its heart, it’s a practical, child-centred approach to learning movement skills. Here’s a straightforward breakdown:

✨ It’s a holistic educational approach.

Children learn movement skills through active participation, problem-solving and repetition — in much the same way they learn anything else.

✨ It’s designed for children with motor and neurological challenges.

This includes Cerebral Palsy, developmental delay and other conditions that affect motor learning.

✨ Sessions take place in small, structured groups.

Children learn from each other, practise skills together and develop confidence in a supportive setting.

✨ The focus is everyday functional skills.

Sitting, standing, reaching, balance, dressing and communication are all built into natural routines.

✨ It’s led by highly trained specialists called “conductors”.

Conductors blend knowledge of movement, child development and education to guide children step by step.

In essence: Conductive Education supports children to build meaningful, real-life skills through active learning.

A Conductor’s Story:

Erika’s Journey Into CE

Erika, Head of Service at Footprints CEC, kindly shared her story — a powerful reminder of the impact CE can have on both families and professionals.

"My journey in CE started at the age of 16, with a transformational moment of meeting a truly inspirational young lady. I remember witnessing how with the support from some amazing professionals called ‘conductors’ she was able to show how a ‘disabled’ child could become ‘able’ to do so many things the moment she entered a room full of expectation and magic. I knew there and then that I wanted to become a conductor.I was lucky enough to get onto the training course in the Peto Institute in Budapest where I became a qualified conductor-teacher in 2001. The training again was, transformational itself, but in reflection, the majority of my knowledge, appreciation and passion has grown (and continues to grow) from my practice over the 20+ years working in the UK with other conductors, aligned professionals and exceptional children and their families.I love being a conductor and I feel privileged and proud every day I get to be in a group with extraordinary and truly inspirational people and to be part of the magic that CE delivers to our families at Footprints Conductive Education centre. My passion continues to grow from working and sharing with others -parents, children, colleagues and students; who are making their own journeys in CE and discovering our own potentials together."— Erika, Head of Service

Erika's story reflects the heart of CE: partnership, learning and a belief in every child’s potential.

How CE Supports Development (Quick Highlights)

Families often tell us CE has helped their child with:

🧠 Active learning

Children are encouraged to try, explore, problem-solve and take part in their learning.

💪 Strength, balance and coordinated movement

Particularly for children with Cerebral Palsy and motor delays.

🧩 Building confidence and persistence

Small steps are celebrated, and children learn that progress comes through practice.

🤝 Social and communication skills

Group sessions naturally encourage interaction, focus and turn-taking.

🏡 Everyday functional independence

From sitting more steadily to dressing, reaching, feeding and transitioning between positions.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family support and community

CE offers consistent guidance, structure and a supportive environment for parents as well as children.

Why We Value Our Work With Footprints CEC

We’ve been fortunate to spend time with the Footprints team, and their approach is thoughtful, experienced and incredibly child-centred. Their conductors provide a space where children feel understood and supported, and where families feel welcomed and included.

For parents exploring early intervention options — whether alongside physiotherapy, occupational therapy or other developmental support — CE is a thoughtful, holistic approach worth considering.

Learn More & Explore Conductive Education - Useful Resources:

🔗 Footprints Conductive Education Centre linked here

🔗 Professional Conductors Association (PCA UK) linked here