Frequently Asked Questions
Simple answers about EMBRACE for parents, educators, and supporters
Everything you need to know about pattern flexibility training for children aged 2-6
👨👩👧👦 For Parents
What is EMBRACE and how can it help my child?
EMBRACE is a simple program that helps children aged 2-6 develop emotional and thinking flexibility. If your child gets "stuck" in patterns - either too controlling or too overwhelmed - EMBRACE uses gentle movement activities to help them find balance.
Is EMBRACE safe for my child?
Yes, completely safe. EMBRACE uses only gentle, age-appropriate movement activities like drawing with different hands, simple balance games, and finger patterns. No equipment, no stressful interventions - just playful activities that integrate naturally into daily routines.
How do I know if my child needs EMBRACE?
Children who might benefit often show patterns like: difficulty expressing emotions (too controlled), or getting easily overwhelmed and withdrawing (too chaotic). But EMBRACE helps all children develop better emotional balance - it's preventive, not just corrective.
Can I do EMBRACE activities at home?
Absolutely! EMBRACE is designed to integrate into daily life. Simple activities like encouraging your analytical child to draw with their left hand, or helping your creative child with right-hand puzzles, can support their development.
Will EMBRACE interfere with my child's natural personality?
No - EMBRACE enhances personality by giving children access to their full range of capabilities. It doesn't change who they are; it helps them become more flexible and resilient versions of themselves.
🏫 For Educators
How does EMBRACE fit into existing curriculum?
EMBRACE integrates seamlessly into daily kindergarten routines. Instead of separate sessions, activities are woven into art time, movement breaks, and regular play. No additional time commitment required.
Do I need special training to implement EMBRACE?
Basic implementation requires minimal training - understanding the two patterns (analytical/creative fixation) and simple activity guidelines. Full training involves recognizing patterns and tailoring activities, but starts with very manageable basics.
How do I identify children who need different approaches?
Analytical Mode Fixation (AMF): Children who are overly controlled, rigid, difficulty expressing emotions. Creative Mode Fixation (CMF): Children who are easily overwhelmed, have trouble with structure or focus. Most children show clear tendencies.
What if parents have concerns about the program?
EMBRACE is designed to be transparent and collaborative. Parents receive clear information about activities, can observe sessions, and the approach is gentle and non-invasive. Most concerns resolve with understanding the simple, supportive nature of the work.
🔬 About the Science
Is EMBRACE scientifically proven?
EMBRACE is based on established neuroscience research about critical periods, neuroplasticity, and sensorimotor integration. We're currently conducting field studies in Ukraine and preparing pilot studies in Germany to validate the specific EMBRACE approach.
Why ages 2-6 specifically?
This is the critical neuroplasticity window when emotional and cognitive patterns are forming but not yet fixed. Intervention during this period can prevent rigid patterns from becoming entrenched personality structures.
How is EMBRACE different from other early childhood programs?
EMBRACE specifically targets pattern flexibility through body-side activities. Rather than general development, it addresses how children get "stuck" in thinking/feeling modes and provides targeted activities to restore natural balance.
What research supports the hand-brain connection?
Extensive research shows connections between hand use and cognitive network activation. Different body-side activities can influence neural network switching patterns - the brain's ability to dynamically shift between analytical and creative processing modes. EMBRACE applies this strategically to help children develop flexible thinking patterns rather than getting stuck in rigid cognitive modes.
🎯 Practical Questions
How long does EMBRACE take to show results?
Some children show improvements within weeks, but the full program runs for 12 weeks to ensure stable pattern changes. The goal is lasting flexibility, not quick fixes.
What materials or equipment are needed?
Virtually none! EMBRACE uses basic materials already available in kindergartens - paper, crayons, simple toys, balance beams. The power is in the approach, not special equipment.
Can EMBRACE help children with special needs?
EMBRACE can be beneficial for many children with developmental differences, but it's designed as a general prevention program, not special needs therapy. For children with diagnosed conditions, EMBRACE would complement, not replace, specialized interventions.
How much does EMBRACE cost?
We're currently seeking funding for pilot programs to demonstrate effectiveness. Cost will depend on implementation scale, but the program is designed to be affordable and sustainable for educational institutions.
🤝 Getting Involved
How can my kindergarten participate in EMBRACE?
We're currently developing pilot programs. Contact us to discuss potential collaboration, training requirements, and implementation timelines. Interested institutions can join our waiting list for future expansion.
Can I support EMBRACE research financially?
Yes! We're seeking €50,000 to fund our German pilot study across 4 kindergartens. Supporters at various levels receive recognition and updates on research progress. Contact us to discuss contribution opportunities.
Where can I learn more or stay updated?
Visit our website regularly for updates, subscribe to our blog, or contact us directly. We share research progress, pilot results, and implementation guides as they become available.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact us directly for personalized answers about EMBRACE.
Email: tomgamal@gmail.com
Phone: +49 176 242 242 24