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What is CDT ?

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Summary

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Put simply, CDT, or Cognitive Developmental Therapy, is like a workout for your brain. Imagine it as a special kind of training that helps kids who learn and think differently to do better. It gives their brain the power to solve problems, understand emotions and get along with others.

Frequently Asked Question

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What is Cognitive Developmental Therapy (CDT)?

Cognitive Developmental Therapy (CDT) is a set of therapies designed to improve cognitive functioning in children with various neurodiverse conditions.

How does Cognitive Developmental Therapy work?

CDT uses structured exercises to enhance specific areas of cognition, such as problem-solving, emotional understanding, adaptability, and social interaction.

Who can benefit from Cognitive Developmental Therapy?

Children with special needs that affect their cognitive function, emotional regulation, and social interactions can greatly benefit from CDT.

Can Cognitive Developmental Therapy be practiced at home?

Yes, many CDT activities, like puzzle-solving, role-playing, and emotion recognition can be easily incorporated into a child’s daily routine at home.

Scientific Definition

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The term CDT scientifically signifies Cognitive Developmental Therapy. It is an array of specialized therapies aimed to enhance cognitive assembly and functionality within children possessing varying neurodiverse conditions. By focusing on executive functions, emotional regulation, social cognition, and perspective-taking, CDT seeks to bolster the brain’s adaptability and learning potential.

A Real World Example of CDT

Meet Lily, a bright 7-year-old with a knack for painting. She’d paint all day if she could but struggles with transitioning between tasks. Here’s how her parents implemented CDT:

  • Picture It: Lily starts her day with a visual schedule. Transitioning isn’t as abrupt when she ‘sees’ what’s next.
  • Let’s Pretend: They practice switching games mid-play. She’s getting better at letting go and moving on.
  • Emotions Board: Lily identifies her feelings on an emotions chart. Understanding her frustration made transitions less daunting.
  • Pat on the Back: Each successful transition is celebrated to reinforce positive behavior.

Lily now navigates her day with fewer frustrations, transforming transitions from battle grounds into stepping stones. Her paintings? They’re more colorful than ever before.

How Does CDT Work?

CDT works by enhancing a child’s ability to learn, understand, and apply new skills. This is accomplished through a series of structured activities and exercises, designed to target specific cognitive areas. Examples of CDT in action are:

  • Puzzle Time: Solving puzzles to improve problem-solving faculties.
  • Emotion Cards: Identifying and naming emotions using visual aids, fostering emotional intelligence.
  • Replace and React: Swapping out rigid thoughts with more flexible ones to improve adaptability.
  • Role-Play: Acting out social scenarios to enhance communication skills and social interaction.

In essence, CDT turns thinking into a fun “brain exercise”, transforming the way kids process and respond to the world around them.

Our digital buddy, Goally, comes loaded with interactive games and visual schedules that can support CDT exercises at home. This fun tablet couples task management with skills training, promoting independence and boosting cognitive development in a playful way. Goally is a CDT-friendly device that kids won’t just need, but will want to use.