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The Brain Development Podcast

The Brain Development Podcast

Written by: Lara Barnes
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 The Brain Development Podcast provides parents with a pathway to healing the behavioural and learning symptoms of their Autistic, Dyslexic, ADHD, OCD, Asperger's, Dyspraxic, and Dysgraphic child. This podcast covers topics like building the foundation of the brain, correcting the behavioural and learning issues you see in your child with a neurodiverse child. We shared parent success stories, expert insights, how the brain develops, what causes changes in a child's trajectory, how to help your child, gut health, microbiome, supplements, diet, nutrition, lab testing, visual and auditory systems, correcting the trajectory of a child with primitive reflexes, nervous system, photobiomodulation and so much more. Join us to understand how you can help build your child's brain to let your child shine. Hygiene & Healthy Living Parenting Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships
Episodes
  • Transforming Neurodiverse Brains: Sana’s Journey with Muhammad

    Transforming Neurodiverse Brains: Sana’s Journey with Muhammad
    Jan 16 2026
    In this episode of The Brain Development Podcast, Lara sits down with Sana, a devoted mother whose son Muhammad has experienced remarkable changes in his behaviour, cognition, and overall well-being over the past year. Joined by naturopathic nutritionist Vicky, they share an inspiring, layered journey of healing that combines primitive reflex integration, diet, lab analysis, and specialist care. This conversation is a message of hope for parents navigating the challenges of neurodiversity, showing that with dedication, the right guidance, and a holistic approach, profound transformation is possible. From managing gut health to integrating brain development techniques, Sana’s story exemplifies the power of informed, proactive parenting. Key Takeaways: Neurodiverse children are not “naughty” or broken: Many behavioural challenges stem from gut dysbiosis, autoimmunity, inflammation, and unintegrated reflexes, not wilful misbehaviour. Layered approach works: Combining primitive reflex work, diet changes, lab-guided interventions, and specialist therapy can unlock developmental potential. Parents’ determination is crucial: Following expert guidance consistently and taking control of your child’s environment, including home schooling if necessary, can accelerate progress. Hope is possible: With perseverance, neurodiverse children can thrive, learn, and reach their full potential. Best Moments and Quotes: Sana: “It is a very, very hard journey and very heartbreaking even for the parents… but you have to take a decision and really look into where your child needs help.” Vicky: “There were layers and layers that could be peeled back, and every layer we addressed took off a chunk of symptoms.” Sana: “We saw the changes within three days. All the groundwork we did beforehand made it easier for him to improve.” Sana: “Believe in yourself. Never ever give up. I decided to sacrifice my freedom for a period of time for the good of my child.” SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    49 mins
  • Navigating the Complexities of Visual Processing: A Conversation with Rakhi Pabari

    Navigating the Complexities of Visual Processing: A Conversation with Rakhi Pabari
    Jan 9 2026
    Lara welcomes Rakhi Pabari, a behavioural optometrist with over 20 years of experience, to discuss the critical role of vision in children's learning and development. Rakhi shares her personal journey with her son, who faced various challenges that led her to explore the connections between the visual system, brain function, and behaviour. The conversation delves into the differences between traditional optometry and behavioural optometry, emphasising the importance of understanding how visual processing impacts everyday activities like reading and coordination. Rakhi highlights the significance of addressing primitive reflexes, balance, and auditory processing in children, providing insights into how these factors can affect their academic performance. KEY TAKEAWAYS Behavioural Optometry vs. Traditional Optometry: Behavioural optometry goes beyond assessing eye health and vision clarity; it emphasises how visual information is processed and its impact on learning and behaviour. Importance of Individualised Treatment: Each child requires a tailored vision therapy program that considers their unique needs and challenges. Regular assessments and adjustments to the therapy ensure that the child is progressing and receiving the appropriate support. Signs of Visual Struggles in Children: Teachers and parents should be aware of signs that may indicate a child is struggling with their visual system, such as losing their place while reading, avoiding close work, or exhibiting unusual head and body positions. BEST MOMENTS "Behavioural optometry includes all of that. But it places additional emphasis on how the visual information is processed and used in everyday activities." - Rakhi "When I met Archie, he was really tired. His confidence was really low, especially when we did sustained visual tasks." -Rakhi "It's not just a one-fix-all with just primitive reflexes. There's other layers to their development that just need that little bit of help." - Lara SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ https://www.braindevelopment.co.uk HOST BIOLara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. GUEST BIO Rakhi Pabari is a Behavioural Optometrist specialising in paediatric and neurodevelopmental vision care, with over 20 years of experience supporting children and adults with complex needs. A graduate of Cardiff University, she trained at one of the UK’s leading vision assessment clinics and has worked extensively with infants, children, and individuals with additional needs. Rakhi has volunteered with the Special Olympics and supported the RNIB, helping children with visual impairments build confidence and independence. She holds a Professional Certificate in Paediatric Optometry, is an accredited member of the British Association of Behavioural Optometrists (BABO), and has completed advanced training in vision therapy for conditions including strabismus and amblyopia. She is a Certified Irlen Screener and has completed over 150 hours of training in the Melillo Method. Rakhi is also a member of the IAFNR and is recognised for her holistic, whole-person approach to care, focusing on the connection between vision and brain development. Find out more: www.eyesinmotion.com Instagram: @eyes_in_motion Results vary and no outcomes are guaranteed. This content is for general information and does not replace personalised professional advice.
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    35 mins
  • Uncovering the Hidden Dangers: How Mould Exposure Affects Children's Behaviour and Learning

    Uncovering the Hidden Dangers: How Mould Exposure Affects Children's Behaviour and Learning
    Jan 2 2026
    Lara and Vicky delve into the often-overlooked impact of mould exposure on children's behaviour, learning, and emotional well-being. They discuss how mould produces mycotoxins that can inflame the nervous system and immune response, leading to a range of symptoms such as increased irritability, mood swings, and cognitive difficulties. The conversation highlights the importance of recognising the signs of mould exposure and its potential to exacerbate existing conditions like ADHD and PANS. Lara shares her personal experiences with mould in her home and its effects on her family, while Vicky provides insights from her clinical practice, emphasising the need for awareness and proactive measures to mitigate exposure. KEY TAKEAWAYS Impact of Mould on Children: Mould exposure can lead to significant behavioural, emotional, and cognitive issues in children, including increased irritability, mood swings, attention difficulties, and sensory processing problems. Mycotoxins and Inflammation: Mould produces mycotoxins that inflame the nervous system and immune system, leading to a state of chronic inflammation which can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to developmental regressions. Nasal Dysbiosis: Mould exposure can cause nasal dysbiosis, which affects airflow and immune function in the nasal cavity, potentially leading to further complications such as poor brain oxygenation and increased susceptibility to infections. Environmental Awareness: Parents should be vigilant about potential mould exposure in various environments, including homes, schools, and workplaces, and take proactive measures to improve air quality and reduce humidity. BEST MOMENTS "Mould produces something called mycotoxins and these are chemicals that inflame the nervous system, the gut, the nasal cavity and the passages and the immune system." - Lara "If you think about it, that's your filter paper, which is then going into your oral dysbiosis, your gut dysbiosis." - Lara "What mould does is it suppresses innate immunity, and obviously we know the immune system is a seesaw." - Vicky "When they do have mould exposure, it’s so much more virulent because the toxicity that is being produced... is causing so much more in terms of symptomology." - Vicky SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ www.braindevelopment.co.uk https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠ ⁠https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations⁠ HOST BIOLara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. GUEST BIO Vicky is mum to her remarkable autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology and a deep fascination with the human body, she was originally on track to become an NHS dietitian. When Rose’s needs became more complex, everything changed. Vicky immersed herself in learning about autism, neurodevelopment, and root-cause healing, a compassionate, whole-person approach that simply made more sense. From this journey, The Happy Healthy Unicorn was born, a space grounded in both science and heart, created for families seeking real answers and hope. Rose’s transformation inspired Vicky’s mission to help others. Combining science, lived experience, and deep empathy, she now guides families on their own healing journeys, empowering them to restore balance, support development, and unlock their children’s true potential. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠
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    48 mins
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